SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD (SATWOG– MARCH 14TH, 2026) INSPIRING REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS

Laity Reflections for 4th Sunday in Lent, Year A

First Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1b;6-7;10- 13a

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1 -3a;3b-4;5;6 (R. 1)

Second Reading: Ephesians 5.8-14

Alleluia: John 8:12

Gospel: John 9:1-41

Ebonine Tochukwu Joachim, MCD

REFLECTION

Christ; the Light

In this 4th Sunday of lent, we explicitly see the theme of light from the 2nd and Gospel readings. Implicitly, this theme is also seen in the 1st reading.

We are invited to accept Christ who is the light that brings us to light and dispel every darkness in us, that we may seize to be people of darkness and become transformed into people of light.

Having accepted Christ: the light, we will begin to look not by sight but by faith (cf. 2 Cor. 5:7). We will begin to see as Christ would want us to see: greatness in little things, just as in the 1st reading, God instructed Samuel to anoint David; the little shepherd boy.

Having accepted Christ: the light, situations of our life will be turned to give glory to God, just as the man born blind. Our spiritual blindness will be healed for us to acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God and believe in Him.

This season of Lent, having accepted Christ the light, our eyes will be opened to our own darkness and secret behaviours, that we may repent of them all and begin to walk in the light with actions pleasing to God. 

We pray that our shackles of spiritual blindness may be healed by the light (Christ), that we may not be enclosed by self righteousness just like the Pharisees, but be open in humility for the darkness in us to be dispelled by the light of Christ. Amen!

 May we have a wonderful day ahead!!! 💞

Udeh Vincentsavio

REFLECTION

The first reading shows us that God's ways are not man's ways. Most times, man is moved by outer appearance, swayed by emotions and can be easily manipulated. This sometimes affects our life choices. We must always pray for the spirit of discernment and be totally submissive to the will of God.

The responsorial psalm is one of the most popular psalms. We have become so familiar with it that we do not reflect on the words and its meaning. When we recite the Psalm, do we do so like one reciting a familiar poem or literary work? Or do we recite it like one who truly knows the Shepherd?

Chris-Marie Obi

REFLECTION

The story of the appointment of David as king of Israel is one of the most fascinating stories in the Old Testament.

David was the youngest son in his family and seemed unrecognized. Even his father, Jesse, did not initially count him among the sons when Samuel came to anoint the next king.

Jesse presented seven of his sons before Samuel, yet God rejected every one of them. The one chosen by God was not in the house. He was somewhere in the field, quietly tending the animals. Only when David was brought in, did God reveal His choice.

This story reminds us of something powerful: you may not be recognized by people, you may not be counted among the important ones, but God knows you. He knows your name. He sees where you are, even when others overlook you.

And when the time is right, He will call you forward.

May God remember and recognize you. AMEN.

Edward Osivue Okhumoya

REFLECTION

The first reading is a testimony that the Lord works in a mysterious ways. His thinking is far from that of man. Samuel has envisioned and evaluate Eliab as the man fit for the job. But God sees the end from the beginning. This story, is what we all face everyday. We assumed like Samuel and make our judgement about others. But the blessing of God is not something man can predict.

David finds favour in the sight of God because of his relationship with him. It's better to stand alone when you are holding on to the truth than to join the winning team of sinners.

The connection of the Responsorial Psalm reminds us that, with God on our side we are more than conquerors. Imagine being shielded by a King, in this scenario (Lord almighty is a universal King). He will direct and guide us with wisdom and might, no evil will ever prevail over us, because even if we walk in the deepest darkness His staff will comfort and direct us.

The second reading, which is the letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians, is an indicator and reminds us that the Lord is the light and life– when He walk with us, no matter the storm and darkness, His presence brings joy, love, comfort and victory over evil.

Finally, I will end my reflection on the great miracle done by our Lord Jesus Christ to the blind man who was born blind. The man made his own effort by believing and acting with strong faith. Miracles still exist till now. What stops yours? Each time you call on the Lord in the Tabernacle, is there a fear of "what if"? Instead drop the situation at Jesus' feet like the blind man did and see Him change the mourning into joy.

Paddy Kevwe

REFLECTION

Do not relent in doing that which is good because one day it will pay off for you. Do not forget the fact that no matter what we do, people must talk about it mostly in the negative light.

Jesus healed a blind man, and was called a sinner simply because he did that on the Sabbath day, but then, the good work he has done, by healing the man, continues to bear witness to the fact that He is not a sinner because others could see that His deeds are not of a sinner.

May we not be like the Pharisees who would do anything to bring Jesus down despite all the good works He has been doing, which are visible. Rather, we should emulate Jesus to do the work of Him who sent Him, and that work is that of doing good, healing and blessing others.

How far have you gone with your Lenten journey? 

Have you improved on doing good or evil?

Do you speak well of what others do or we castigate them with fabricated lies?

We still have time, for we rejoice today because we have gone halfway in our Lenten journey, we can still make a difference and decide to be better than what we used to.

May God help us with His grace, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Jude Okoro

REFLECTION

Dear friends in Christ, the readings of tomorrow powerfully calls us to shine out our light.

In the first reading in the book of 1st Samuel, God is reminding us that He looks and sees beyond our outward appearances but looks at the inner heart, and like David, we are chosen and anointed for a purpose in life which is to shine God's light in our lives, family and the world at Large.

The Lord is our Shepherd, as the Responsorial Psalm and Psalm 23 would say, God is guiding and will always comfort us through life's valleys, trials and tribulations. He prepares a table for us, anointing us with blessings and overflowing our cup, and his goodness and mercies would always be and abide with us always, and we shall end up in his heavenly kingdom for ever. Dear friends, this is God's promise to each and everyone of us.

That is why each and everyone of us has been called to live as children of light, so as to expose and overcome darkness in our lives and family.

In the Gospel of John, the story of the man born blind teaches each and everyone of us about the importance of spiritual sight. Jesus Christ of Nazareth is the Light of the world, he opens our eyes to see God's glory and gives us new life.

Dear friends in Christ, are we allowing God's light to shine through us? 

Are we seeing with our spiritual eyes? 

Today is a day of salvation, oh that today you listen to his voice, harden not your hearts. May God bless his words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, FEBRUARY 28TH, 2026

 SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS ACROSS THE GROUPS.

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT (A)
1st Reading:(Genesis 12: 1-4a)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM  (33:4-5. 18-19.20 and 22 (R. 22))
2nd Reading: (2 Timothy 1:8b-10)
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 17:1-9)

Janet Meriabe Osuide

REFLECTION

    

The Transfiguration story is in the second Sunday of Lent to bring to Christ's followers' awareness the necessary connection between glory and suffering.

The announcement of His suffering and resurrection perplexed the disciples and raised troubling questions in their minds. With the revelation through the transfiguration to Peter, James and John, Jesus reassured them, strengthening their belief by a divine revelation that gave a glimpse of the heavenly kingdom. Such a preview was meant to refresh the disciples and encourage them to continue on with Jesus. 

We are disciples of Jesus, continually learning what it means to follow Him. By this, we must listen, be obedient and have faith in God just like our father Abram. He obeyed without doubt. We must not be afraid. We must always rise and follow Jesus without fear. It is in the presence of God that there is fullness of joy no matter the challenges of life.

 

Dear friends glory and suffering are necessary realities of this life. We must keep the revealed glory of heaven in focus to continue to navigate the narrow path that leads to eternal life.

Anne Aikpokhio

REFLECTION 

 Trusting God 

When Father Abram receives the message from God, he obeyed, trusting in God to fulfill the purpose of his call. Not minding the challenges he would faced in fulfilling his mission. He believes that God will not abandon him in his journey. 

As Christian, our calling is a journey to serve God not by our own merits but by the virtue of God purpose and grace upon our life. 

Hence, we should not be discouraged, but we should trust in God's mercy for the grace to get to our final destination....Heaven 

The 3 disciples behold the glory of God revealed to them and exclaimed prophetically... "It is good for us to be here". Nothing can be compared to God's glory. Abram did not hesitate to obey the call, because he trust God. We too should not hesitate but trust God for everything in life. 

 Heavenly race, I no go tire.

Just like the 3 disciples, may God open our eyes through the power of the Holy Spirit to behold his glory, give us the grace to journey through the various challenges in our Christian race and make heaven at last. Shalom. Amen 🙏

Igwe Mary Benita

REFLECTION 

In today’s readings, heaven meets earth in a powerful way.

 In the First Reading, Abraham is called to trust God completely. He does not see the full picture, yet he believes. God responds by sealing a covenant a reminder that when we entrust our lives to God, He is always faithful.

In the Gospel, on the mountain of Transfiguration, Jesus Christ reveals His glory to Peter the Apostle, James the Apostle, and John the Apostle. His face shines like the sun a glimpse of who He truly is. Yet the voice from heaven says something simple and direct: “Listen to Him.” The Christian life is not just about witnessing miracles; it is about obedience. It is about listening especially when God’s word challenges us to change.

The Second Reading reminds us that our true homeland is in heaven. We are not meant to live only for this world. Like Abraham, we are pilgrims. Like the apostles, we are being transformed but transformation requires surrender.

Today, the Lord invites us to climb the mountain with Him to leave behind sin, doubt, and fear. He touches us and says, “Rise, and have no fear.” If we listen to Him, if we trust Him, our lives too will begin to shine with His light. And that light can lead us and others to repentance and new life.

Angeles Christian 

REFLECTION 

Called to Faith, Strengthened by the Cross.

God called Abraham, and he responded in faith. In the same way, God calls each of us in the second reading to accept our share of suffering for the sake of the Gospel, through the power of God—to take up our cross and follow Him. Are we truly ready to accept whatever cross comes our way? Many people run away from the cross, yet it is unavoidable.

Carrying the cross is never easy, but with God it becomes lighter, because He has promised to walk with us and ease our burden—if only we allow Him. Just like Abraham, may God Almighty grant us the grace and strength to accept whatever cross may come our way and to carry it with Him, so that in the end we may not be found wanting. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏾

Martha Onuh

REFLECTION 

So Abraham went as the Lord had told him

In our first reading we read about the call of Abram, and it says that he went as the Lord had told him (obedience) 

In the Gospel we hear the spirit of God saying at the Transfiguration that "this is my beloved son, LISTEN TO HIM"

Are we listening, are we obeying just as Abram did? We are called to obedience this day, to listen to God and to Obey him in everything.

Chinwe Ann Udechukwu

REFLECTION 

“Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.”

Listening to this, I just imagine myself from a troubled family with lots of problems and burdens, going to Mass and hearing the homily from the priest and the singing from the choir and I really enjoyed it so much and I feel like not to depart from the church again because I felt happy and at peace and I feel like not going back to those problems and squabble because such gathering brings me peace and closer to God, but the test if what I felt in the church is not to remain in the church, but going back to those problems with a different mindset of that happiness I achieved from the gathering because Christ said, if you will be my disciple, carry your cross and follow me. The test of that happiness I attained at the church is the challenges I face in my everyday life. It is really good to come together in the church with our problems, anxieties, burdens, sorrows, needs, desires, and thanksgiving and listen to the word of God, join to sing, and receive our Lord Jesus Christ in the holy Eucharist. At the end we will go back to our different environments, workplace, houses as the disciples of Christ to carry out that experience we got from the Mass.

I ask myself, how much of that Mass do I take home to share or do I just leave everything there and go back as I came?

How much of that experience do I reflect in my way of life and encounter with people?

Social Friday (Celebrating OCCF members, February 2026)

 

At OCCF, We celebrate our members collectively at the end of the month, collate their intentions and have our Spiritual Director ( Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ) and his Assistant (Fr. Toby Ndiukwu) offer the Holy Mass for them.

We wish them many happy and fruitful returns..

Parabéns, dear members, and many blessings!

Meet Our February  2026 Celebrants🎈🥳😁

Patrick & Aritha Aleka

17TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 

Date - 14th February 

State of Origin - Cross River 

Chika Emenugha

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 19th February 

State of Origin - Imo state

Status - Married

Ilechie Ikemefuna

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 1st February 

State of Origin - Delta

Status - Married 

Atife Oghenerukevwe Valentina

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 14th February 

State of Origin - Delta

Status - Single

Ushie Ignatius

BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 25th February 

State of Origin - Cross River

Status - Single

.

Olusegun Joseph Ajayi-Choco

70TH BIRTHDAY 

D.O.B - 14th February 

State of Origin - Ekiti

Status - Married 

Barr. Nathaniel & Mrs Anthonia Ugorji

14TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 

Date - 11th February 

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, FEBRUARY 21ST, 2026

 SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS ACROSS THE GROUPS.

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT (A)
1st Reading:(Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM  (Ps 51:3-4.5-6ab. 12-13.14 and 17 (R. cf. 3a)
2nd Reading: (Romans 5:12- 19)
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 4:1-11)

Jude Okoro

REFLECTION 

Friend's in Christ the readings remind us of the reality of sin and its consequences, it equally reminds us that Sin is a part of our human experience, but it's not the end of the story, but also the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ.

In the first reading from the book of Genesis we read about the fall of humanity through Adam's disobedience in the garden of Eden, where the serpent tempted Eve, and she and Adam ate the forbidden fruit, leading to sin and death entering into the world, and the beginning of our sufferings and challenges.

That is why we need to Cry out to God to have mercy on us just like the Psalmist in Psalm 51 cried out for mercy and forgiveness, acknowledging his sin and the sinfulness of his heart. Brethren, let us ask God to create a clean heart in us and to restore the joy of his salvation in our lives and in our families.

 In the second reading from St Paul, we can understand just as sin came into the world through Adam, so too did righteousness come through Jesus Christ our Lord, Through faith in Jesus, we can receive the gift of righteousness and eternal life.

Thats why in the Gospel we see Jesus facing temptation in the wilderness. He is tempted by Satan to turn stones into bread, to throw himself off a mountain, and to worship Satan in exchange for power. But Jesus resisted each temptation, quoting the Scripture and affirming his trust in God his Father.

Friend's in Christ are we aware of the sin in our life and the need for redemption? 

Are you trusting in Jesus Christ for salvation your Soul?

Friend's in Christ in these season of lent let us lean on God for strength to go through trials and tribulations and to do away with all that is not of God. 

May God bless His words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Okoronwko Ifeoma Vivian

REFLECTION 

According to the gospel reading. Jesus was tempted in the wilderness.

We as Christians when facing challenges, temptation or difficult times we should stand firm like Jesus did. 

May God give us the grace to always stand firm at all times in Jesus name. Amen.

Ebonime Tochukwu Joachim MCD  

REFLECTION 

By one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by one man's obedience many will be made righteous. 

Adam and Eve gave in to temptation due to their physical desire and greed ; once a little push came, they forgot of the Being who fashioned and positioned them in the garden and kept all at their disposal. Moreover, they were curious and Satan took advantage of their curiosity. (Curiosity they say kills the cat)

Jesus came to undo what was done by Adam. Filled by the Holy Spirit but also by bodily weakness from the 40 days fast and need for physical food, satan saw it as an opportunity. But the prince of Peace prevailed because the Spiritual led the physical.

Temptations come to us just as it came to Adam and Jesus. Satan looks for any slight opportunity we give to him and these opportunities come from our desires of the flesh. However, let's always be guided; never allow your carnal and physical desires overshadow your spiritual control. Even philosophers will opine that Man must not allow his passion to rule his mind ( Cf. La philosophie de Plato).

Hence, just as Jesus was filled with the Spirit, he overcame his bodily desires and material wants, may we also learn to be led and directed by the spirit to avoid being ruled by our carnal wants and desires. Amen!

Be guided, during this period of Lent, we might have decided to forfeit some things and take up some spiritual exercises in order to journey more intimately with Christ. This is what annoys Satan and triggers our carnality, temptations will be at it's peak this period that is why in her wisdom the church proposes the theme of temptation this 1st Sunday of Lent. May we be guided never to give in to temptation of any sort. Amen!!

Genevieve Nwaneri

REFLECTION 

No one is above temptation; absolutely no one. It's a part of our journey as christians.If Jesus Christ who was without sin was tempted, who are we to say we are above temptation. This also reminds us that temptation doesn't come in our happy or joyful moments, it comes in our vulnerable moments; when we are tired, discouraged or uncertain. 

Note that the devil presented Jesus with irresistible offers like bread to fill his appetite after being hungry from the fasting and the power and glory of the world to possess. But we should be aware that the Devil gives out with conditions;he is transactional. He collects what he gives in dangerous folds. 

 This Lenten season, we have different habits we would like to either give up or take up but there would always be temptation to compromise our fast. When these temptations comes, let God's word strengthen us.

Chika Nwaozuzu

REFLECTION 

Have mercy on us oh Lord for we have sinned. Ps 51.

*********************

Acknowledgement of our sin and asking for mercy and forgiveness is one attitude that puts us right with God. It's a show of humility. When we sin,we should not look for someone to blame rather, the blame should be on us and our desires. 

Perhaps if our first parent Adam and Eve had taken the blame for their actions and had uttered the words of David in PS 51,"Have Mercy On Us oh Lord for we have sinned", maybe, just maybe our world wouldn't have been in this mess we are today.

In the gospel, Jesus demonstrated in the first temptation that all our carnal desires are meant to be stopped immediately. We should not give them any room in our hearts and minds because by doing so,we are giving them a fertile ground to germinate and bear fruits. Jesus stopped this temptation with a firm refusal b4 it could gain much space in his mind. And James 1:13--15 warns us that "we could only be tempted by our desires and if not checked, would lead us to sin. Therefore Jesus warns that,all illicit appetites must be met upfront. Never let evil gain a foothold in your life because what nourishes the stomach is too slight a meal to satisfy the hunger of the soul.

In the second temptation Jesus reminds us that "fame quickly spoils the lives of those for whom it becomes a driving hunger. Fame is attractive because it offers us a kind of power and this power makes people to recognise us and exalts us. In our world today both Christian and secular,70 - 90% of men/women falls under this temptation. Jesus reminded satan and in deed all people that all worships should be accorded to God and God alone and not to our own egos. The adoration of ego is a fragile and disappointing worship.

The final temptation (Power)is one that all humans on earth are prone to fall into. Power allows us the freedom to stay on top of life by forcing others to use their own lives to serve us. When one has power, one can order life because power postpones dying. With power, you can save your own life while sacrificing others. With power, you run the show and call the shots. To sweeten this deal,satan showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and asked Jesus to fall down and worship him and all would be his. In deed Jesus wanted all nations to belong to his father and also falls in adoration before God but Jesus also knows that,satan can never give him all the nations at once. Though salvation is for all nations but the gospel would never conquer the entire continent. It would only conquer single souls at a time for those who truly believe. Jesus teaches here that, the only cure for those who hunger after power is to leave the shadowy worship of their egos and find an altar for a true God because anything from satan is never real.

May the Lord bless his words in our lives through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Emmanuel Ufuoma Rumeh Sekegor

REFLECTION 

✏️from the first reading, okpolor eye 👁 no be open eye meaning. If God tells us not to do something and we do it our eye will open. That thing we are looking for we will see 👀 it.

✏️ from the psalms.

When our eyes 👀 open and we realize our misdeeds we should ask God for mercy and grace to live upright.

✏️the second reading.

Because Christ don come we no dey under the law. And God pickin ( Christ) go help us overcome as the new Adam. 

✏️the Gospel passage 

Make us understand say no be only food go make us survive but every word of God that's as we dey chop food everyday make we dey chop the word of God too everyday. Shalom 🕊️🥰

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, FEBRUARY 14TH, 2026.

 SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS

SIXTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME YEAR A 

FIRST READING: Sirach 15:15-20

RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 119: 1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34 

SECOND READING: 1 Corinthians 2: 6-10

GOSPEL READING: Matthew 5:17-37

ANGELA OCHEME

Here is my reflection for today. 

The book of Sirach tells us how God gave human beings free will and are responsible for the choices they make in life. 

It says that God has placed before human beings life and death; good and evil and that we are free to choose whether to keep God's commandments or not.

If we choose to be obedient to him, it will lead to life, and if we choose sin instead, it will lead to destruction. 

Because God sees everything and nothing is hidden from Him. 

Though He (God) gives us freedom, but we are responsible for our decisions we make. He does not force anyone to do good or evil. 

The Gospel of Matthew 5:17-37 is telling us part of the sermon on the Mount spoken by Jesus Christ. 

The main message here is that Jesus did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill and deepen it.

What it says is that Jesus fulfills the Law. He did not come to destroy the law of Moses but to complete it and not even the smallest part of the law will disappear. 

Secondly, He says Righteousness must go deeper. Our righteousness must go beyond that of the Scribes and Pharisees.

Thirdly, He talks about anger: It's says here that it's not only murder that is wrong, that even anger and insulting others can bring judgement upon us. 

Fourthly, He talks about Adultery. That adultery is not only doing the physical act, but also even looking at someone lustfully is sinful. 

Fifthly, He talks about divorce. That divorce is not encouraged except in serious cases.

  

Lastly, Jesus told us in this passage not to swear unnecessary oaths. That we should simply say Yes or No and mean what we say. 

The main idea in this word of God is that, true obedience is not just shown in external actions, but having purity of heart. 

The book of Sirach emphasizes on free will and responsibility, while the Gospel of Matthew emphasizes on deep moral commitment from the heart. 

UGOCHUKWUNYEREM ANYANWU

Who else notice say d 1st reading no use force….

E say, if you like o, keep d commandment, but e go save u!

See na dis style of choice God take give me and you “freewill”, freewill wey get kwansikwensis… 

Dis reading remind me about d book wey I read years back. “As you lay your bed”. Oyibo man come finish am say “as you lay your bed, na so you go lie on top am”.

Na wisdom we need to choose wetin go benefit us. Na wisdom wey come from God we need so dat we go fit choose life…

Na dis same wisdom go help us 

1. keep d law

2. ⁠no waka kurukere

3. ⁠undastand how we go take folo d teaching

4. ⁠open eye like fish, make evil pipul no deceive us.

5. ⁠trust and obey.

Today, God abeg help me wit wisdom wey only You fit give, so dat I go fit make only choice wey go sweet You.

Amen. 

EGUJIE ANONE CYNTHIA 

My Reflection 

The First Reading from the Book of Sirach teaches that God has given every person the freedom to choose between good and evil. Faithfulness to God is not forced. It is a conscious decision to walk in His ways and keep His commandments.

In the Second Reading, St. Paul in the First Letter to the Corinthians explains that God’s wisdom is deeper than human understanding. True wisdom comes from the Spirit and is revealed to those who love God and live according to His will.

In the Gospel from the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus teaches that righteousness is not only about external obedience to the law but about inner transformation. He calls His followers to purity of heart, sincerity, faithfulness, and a life that reflects God’s holiness from within.

These readings remind us that faith is both a gift and a responsibility. God respects our freedom and invites us to choose what leads to life. True holiness is not merely following rules outwardly but allowing God’s wisdom to shape our thoughts, words, and actions.

As followers of Christ, we are called to live with integrity-choosing good even when it is difficult, seeking God’s wisdom above worldly understanding, and allowing our hearts to be transformed by His grace. When we choose God daily, our lives become a testimony of His truth and love.

May God continue to direct us and grant us his wisdom and love. 

IGBINAZAKA ANGELA

Todays gospel reading strikes harder with the celebration of Valentine’s Day that comes with a lot of cravings to dine and wine excessively especially to impress or intimidate others. Christ teaches that the thought of committing a sin is as grave as the sin itself. 

Hence I started cautioning myself on the many times my small brain starts going south when it’s supposed to be at the West Point. Desires that are selfish and lustful thinking which occupies my mind are indications of a sinful nature I am been admonished against. 

Again I am reminded to stick to my words without justifying them by swearing by my head or by heaven or earth, as they profane God. Let my Yes be Yes and my No be No.

ITOHAN MERCY UMOLE

God's commandments are meant to guide us, not to make us feel burdened. We need to always remember them to avoid sin.

However, these days many people practice christianity to suit their purpose; they interprete God's word to suit their evil acts. 

Let us remember God's commandments and the deep meanings surrounding them. That way, we are sure to be better Christians.

May the Lord bless His word in our hearts 🙏

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, FEBRUARY 8TH, 2026

 

FIFTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
1st Reading: (Isaiah, 58:7-10)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM  (Psalm 112:4-5.6-7.8a and 9 (R. 4a)
2nd Reading: (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 5: 13- 16)

Ignatius Akiti Jude

 REFLECTION

Being a CHRISTIAN automatically is living a blessed Life and this comes with a number of responsibilities, and today’s readings remind us of some of them. The First Reading focuses on outward works of faith. This is practically doing good to other with the physical l blessings God has given us, this blessings are not for our own self-aggrandizement, but so that we can become a blessing to others. Christians are called to selfless service to humanity and to God’s creation. We are caretakers of what God has entrusted to us.

We have been blessed in many ways materially, intellectually, financially, and otherwise but these blessings are not meant for us alone. Nature teaches us this lesson clearly. A mango or orange tree produces fruit, but it cannot eat its own fruit. When the season comes, it bears fruit so that others may benefit and appreciate God for its beauty. In the same way, our blessings are meant for those around us it will be a waste not to share them. This is the ministry we are called to, especially through charity to the poor and help for the needy (Isaiah 58:7; Proverbs 19:17) such is the focus of our first reading.

The responsorial psalm assures us that those who live upright and just lives will surely receive help. This is God’s promise. And very often, that help comes through someone else whom God has already blessed (Psalm 112:4).

The second reading reminds us of another Christian responsibility, sharing wisdom, discernment, and light, everything doesn't have to be about physical goods and riches, Through our words and actions, we can counsel others and lead them toward a better way of life through the transforming message of the Gospel (1 Corinthians 2:12).

In the Gospel, Jesus brings everything together when He tells us that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:13–16). Light and darkness cannot blend. If our lives show no difference from those who do not believe, then our light needs to be questioned. The truth here is if people observe the way ans manner you life your life and can't tell or identify you as a Christian then you are simply not one. Because light is always distinct by virtue of its physical and inherent quality from darkness. 

May God enlighten our hearts and minds, so that we may truly shine as His light, in our families, our communities, and wherever we find ourselves, brings direction and discernment to those blind and lost in this world engulfed In Darkness so that through our lives, Christ may be revealed and glorified. This we ask, Through Christ our Lord.

 Amen .🙏

Awotoye Matthew

My Reflection:

In this Gospel, Jesus reminds us of who we are meant to be salt and light in the world. Salt preserves, adds value, and brings taste; in the same way, our lives as Christians should influence our environment positively through love, kindness, integrity, and humility. When we lose these virtues, we risk losing our true purpose and impact.

Jesus also calls us the light of the world. Light does not struggle to be seen it simply shines. Our good works, words, and attitudes should reflect Christ naturally so that others may see God through us. We are not called to hide our faith or goodness but to live it openly, inspiring hope and giving glory to God.

Today’s message challenges us to ask ourselves: Am I adding value where I am? Am I shining light or contributing to darkness? Even in small acts a kind word, forgiveness, support, honesty we become light in someone’s life.

May God help us remain faithful salt and shining light, so that through our lives, others may encounter His love and give glory to Him. Amen.

Genevieve Nwaneri

My Reflection

Jesus admonishes us to be two essential elements:Salt and Light. Imagine a food without salt;it won't be palatable to eat. Also imagine a room without light; nothing will be visible. These essential qualities that these two elements possess are what is demanded from us as Christians.  

   One thing that salt and light have in common is that they both make a difference wherever they are. Christians are not called to blend into the world or imitate culture that have been termed 'Normal' by the society, rather our Christianity must reflect Christ-like values and qualities. Whether we like it or not, our actions speak. The question is not if we are seen, but what people see when they look at us. A lamp placed on a stand exists not for itself but to illuminate others. 

The final line is the major part:'Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your father who is in heaven '.The goal is not admiration or praise for ourselves but praise and honour to God.

Emmanuel Nmormah

Reflection

The responsorial psalm tells us that light rises in the darkness of the upright. It goes to tell us that irrespective of what you might be going through at the moment, there is always light at the end of the tunnel and God will make a way. Just remain steadfast and faithful.

Vivian Agatha Oyih

My Reflection 

In the gospel passage, our Lord Jesus reminds us that we are the salt 🧂 of the earth, but if the salt loses its test, it becomes saltless and of no value. We become saltless when we no longer care about the well-being of others, and we behave worse than unbelievers. 

As Christians, every step in our lives is very important. Our relationship with one another and society at large is very important. If the words that come out of your mouth do not glorify the Lord by expressing love to others, then you are saltless.

We are also the light of the world, and the light of Christ in us is expected to shine wherever we go. Our good work should draw people to Christ. 

May the light of Christ in our lives continue to spread and win more souls for the kingdom.

Emmanuel Ojo

Be Light and Salt of the Earth

The first reading calls us - believers to genuine acts of compassion and justice... urging us to share our food with the hungry, shelter the homeless, clothe the naked, and remove oppression, false accusations. When we care for the afflicted and live justly, our “light” breaks forth in the dark.

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this by describing the blessings of the upright person who is generous, merciful, and just. Such a person shines like a light in the dark, stands in times of trouble, and trusts confidently in the Lord.

In the second reading, Saint Paul stresses that faith rests not on human wisdom or eloquence but on the power of Christ crucified and the Spirit of God. As the salt of the earth, we are to preserve goodness and visibly reflect God’s truth through our actions.