OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FORUM (OCCF)

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.

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, JANUARY 31ST, 2026

The selected reflections for the week:

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME YEAR A

FIRST READING: Zephaniah 2:3; 3: 12-13

RESPONSORIAL PSALM: (Psalm 146:6-7.8-9a.9bc-10 (R. Matthew 5:3)

SECOND READING: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

GOSPEL READING: Matthew 5:1-12a

ANTHONY C. ONUMAJURU

My humble reflection

The first reading, from the Book of the Prophet Zephaniah (Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12–13), calls us to seek the Lord. To seek the Lord can be expressed in many ways:

to long for the Lord, to search for the Lord, to walk with the Lord, to dwell in the presence of the Lord, to make our home with the Lord, to settle our lives in the Lord.

This invitation naturally leads us to some important and soul-searching questions:

- Who will seek the Lord?

- How do we seek the Lord?

- When do we seek the Lord?

- Where do we seek the Lord?

These are reflective questions we must ask ourselves daily as we examine our lives.

The answer to the first question is already given in the same reading:

“Who will seek the Lord?” — All you humble of the land, who carry out his commands; seek righteousness, seek humility.

The remaining questions invite deeper personal reflection:

Do we seek the Lord with humility or with pride?

Do we seek Him only in moments of crisis and abandon Him when life becomes comfortable?

Do we seek Him in unholy ways, cutting corners and compromising our values?

The second reading, from the First Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 1:31), reminds us: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”

Our confidence, our pride, and our glory must be rooted not in ourselves, but in God alone.

Finally, the Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:1–12a) opens our eyes to the abundant blessings promised to those who truly seek the Lord.

Those who seek Him with humility will be comforted, satisfied, shown mercy, and strengthened. Above all, their reward will be great in heaven.

May the good Lord grant us the grace of humility as we worship Him, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Benedicamus Dominus … Deo Gratias

GLORIA OBASOGIE

MY REFLECTION

THE GOSPEL
Jesus goes up the mountain and teaches the Beatitudes, often called the foundation of Christian living.

Unlike the worldly way of thinking, Jesus calls blessed:
The poor in spirit.
The meek.
Those who mourn.
The merciful.
The pure in heart.
The peacemakers.
Those who are persecuted.

These people are not weak or helpless. They are men and women who choose God’s ways instead of worldly gain.

The Beatitudes are not only about heaven in the future. They show us who Jesus Himself is. Jesus is humble, gentle, merciful, and rejected. When we live the Beatitudes, we are living the life of Christ, and God’s Kingdom becomes real among us now here on earth.

The Beatitudes also challenge us to stand against corruption, tribalism, and oppression by choosing humility, justice, mercy, and peace.
Generally, living the Beatitudes means:
- Choosing honesty instead of selfish gain,

- Choosing mercy instead of revenge,

- Choosing truth instead of popularity,

- Choosing faithfulness instead of comfort.
This way of life is not easy, but it brings deep and lasting joy.

The Beatitudes are not meant for a few special people. They are the true identity of every Christian and God’s promise to those who live humbly.

EMMANUEL OJO

God’s Ways Are Not Ours

God’s wisdom is unlike human wisdom, and His ways are far beyond our understanding.

Everything He does is for the glory of His holy name and for the good of those who love Him.

While people often rely on their own assumptions and standards, God chooses what the world overlooks—the poor, the uneducated, the unnoticed, the homeless, those without status or recognition—to accomplish His divine purpose. In doing so, He ensures that no one relies on privilege or personal merit as a measure of worthiness. Instead, all glory and praise belong to Him alone, so that no one boasts in their own strength but in God’s power and grace.

We are therefore reminded to remain humble, never lose hope in ourselves, and continually seek the Lord.

Glory to Jesus.
Honour to Mary and Joseph.

MARY BENITA IGWE

Today’s readings gently overturn the way the world defines success and happiness. God does not draw close to the proud or self-sufficient, but to the humble and lowly who seek refuge in Him (Zephaniah). True security is found not in power or status, but in trusting God.

St. Paul reminds us that God deliberately chooses what the world calls weak and foolish, so that no one may boast except in the Lord. Everything we are comes from Him. Grace, not achievement, is our true identity.

In the Gospel, Jesus proclaims the Beatitudes—a radical vision of blessedness. The poor in spirit, the meek, the merciful, and the persecuted are called blessed because their hearts are open to God. The Beatitudes do not deny suffering; they reveal God’s presence within it.

The message is clear: humility is strength, dependence on God is freedom, and true joy is found not in having more, but in belonging to God.

JUDE AKITI-MOMODU

SHARING MY REFLECTION

As Christians, we are called to keep our eyes on the joy that awaits us in heaven, a joy far greater than anything this world can offer. Jesus reminds us that our true reward is not here but in eternity, so even when life brings trials, we should not lose hope or compare our journey with others. We are people on a journey toward an eternal home, and this is the hope we profess as Catholics: the joyful hope of the resurrection and life in the world to come.

How we prepare for eternity depends greatly on how we understand and imagine eternal life. Many people struggle to look forward to heaven because they have formed a false or limited picture of it in their minds. This isn't only wrong it is also impossible, Scripture reminds us that no human eye has seen or ear heard, nor can the human heart fully imagine what God has prepared for those who love Him. (Isaiah 64:4, 1 Corinthians 2:9).

Please note: You must be employed First by an organization before you can have you name in their payroll, this is why: The promises of heavenly rewards and Blessings are for those that "Love God" not those that merely observe some codes of conducts.

In the Gospels, the Beatitudes serve as the new covenant codes/ commandments for our lives. Just as Moses received the commandments on Mount Sinai, Jesus taught the new way of life on the mountain too, calling us to live by love, humility, mercy, and faith. Jesus is the mediator of this new and everlasting covenant, fulfilling all earlier covenants like the Adamic, Mosaic, Divinic covenants.

God Himself set the terms of all this covenant and invites us to walk in it. We get rewarded with Blessings when we live according to His terms of the covenant, while turning away from them leads us off the path as eventually bring Curses.

This is where many misunderstand the faith. Good character alone is not enough if it is separated from Christ. One may appear gentle, humble, or pure, but without first believing in and confessing Christ, the purpose is missed. We cannot receive a reward from someone we are not serving. Our place in God’s plan is not earned by our works alone, it was already paid for by Christ. Because of this, we do not boast, but remain forever grateful, striving to live faithfully until the end. May God give us grace to finish this race well and emerge victorious, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

BIBIANA CYRIL -UZOIGWE

My Reflection today is from the second reading...

This part of the reading reminds us that cut out of God we are nothing. It reminds us that we are who we are not because of our qualifications or status or your commitment in the house of worship but because He has shown us mercy.

It also teaches us that to be used by God, one doesn't look out for those who feel they have arrived rather he comes for those not so or not at all qualified that He may prune them to suit His divine purpose. It is only those who make themselves available that He will use.

God is not after our perfection because he knows we all are still a work in progress rather He values our efforts.

So my dear brethren, to be valued in life we need visibility and this can only come from God. All we need do is humble yourself before Him, surrender to His guidance, Let Him know that what you know is nothing that He may teach you something making you a somebody when you are perceived a nobody.

May God help us all through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen

SOCIAL FRIDAY ( 30TH JANUARY, 2026)

CELEBRATING JANUARY BORN ACROSS THE GROUPS.

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 January Celebrants🎈🥳😁

Name: Rev. Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri

Date Of Birth: 15th January

State of Origin: Imo

Status: Roman Catholic Priest

Name: Segun Olatayo

Date Of Birth: 29th January

State: Lagos

Marital Status: Married

Name: Nchekwube Eze

Date Of Birth: 8th January

State: Anambra State

Marital Status: Married

Name: Dennis Ukange.

Date Of Birth: 10th January.

State of Origin: Nasarawa state.

Marital Status: Single.

Name: Cosmos Ateli

Date of Birth: 26/01

State of Origin: Delta

Marital status: Single

Name: Jennifer Nwatu

Sate Of Origin: Enugu State

Date Of Birth: 30th January

Marital Status: Single

Name: Okoronkwo Ifeoma Vivian

State: Imo

Marital Status: Single

Date Of Birth: 14Th January

Full Name: Atori Jacinta

Date of Birth: 30/ 01

State of Origin : Delta

Marital status: Single

Full Name: NKECHI OKI

Date of Birth. 19TH JANUARY

State Of Origin: DELTA

Marital Status: SINGLE

Name:Ekenemaria Eugene Eze

State: Anambra State

Date Of Birth: 24th January

Marital Status: Single

Name: Oluseun Sebastian Oyedele

DOB: 23/01

State: Ondo

Marital status: single

Name: Egujie Anone Cynthia

Date Of Birth: January 28th

State of Origin: Edo state

marital Status: Single

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD ( 24TH JANUARY, 2025)

SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS.

THIRD SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME YEAR A

The readings;

1st Reading: (Isaiah 9:1-4) or Is 8:23-9:3

RESPONSORIAL PSALM (Psalm 27: 1.4. I 3-14 (R. 1a)

2nd Reading: (1 Corinthians 1:10- 13. 17)

Gospel Reading: (Matthew 4: 12-23)

Awotoye Matthew.

My Reflection

This passage reminds us that God is a God of restoration and hope. Lands once treated with contempt are now made glorious, showing that no situation is beyond God’s transforming power. Where there was darkness, God brings light; where there was sorrow, He restores joy.

The breaking of the yoke and the rod of oppression assures us that God does not ignore the suffering of His people. Just as He delivered them in the days of Midian, He continues to free us from every burden that weighs us down.

This reading calls us to trust in God’s light, to rejoice in His saving power, and to live as people who walk no longer in darkness but in hope and freedom.

Gloria Obasogie Mrs

My Reflection

Saint Paul teaches that unity in the Church is not optional, it is essential to the Gospel. Division tears the Body of Christ and weakens the Church’s witness. Unity does not mean everyone thinking the same, but belonging together in Christ through baptism and the Cross. Pride, factions, and personal loyalties destroy communion. Scripture, Church teaching, and Jesus’ own prayer all show that unity gives life and strength. A divided Church cannot heal the world. Unity requires daily conversion, choosing love, humility, forgiveness, and walking together so Christ may be clearly seen.

Br.Simon-Derah

Reflection of 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Is 9:2).

Isaiah speaks to a people oppressed, confused, and afraid, yet God promises light. This light is not an idea but a Person. The Psalm confirms it: “The Lord is my light and my salvation” (Ps 27:1).

In the Gospel, that prophecy comes alive. Jesus leaves Nazareth and settles in Capernaum the land of Zebulun and Naphtali the very place Isaiah mentioned. He begins with a simple but radical message: “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Then He calls ordinary fishermen into an extraordinary mission: “Follow me.”

What strikes me is that Jesus meets them in the middle of their daily work. No preparation, no seminar, no qualification. Just a response.

*I remember a moment in my own journey when, in the middle of routine community duties, I felt God inviting me not to do more, but to be more available. That quiet call changed how I saw my vocation.*

St. Paul, in the second reading, warns against divisions. When Christ is the light, there is no room for factions.

Light unites;

darkness divides.

For us as Christians, this Gospel is a mirror. We are called from our “boats” comfort zones, personal plans, and preferences to become fishers of men through unity, humility, and availability.

Christ still walks into the “Galilees” of our world: confused youths, broken families, wounded minds. He still says, “Follow me.”

*One striking connection about todays Reading* : is that all the readings reveal Christ as the Light who calls us out of darkness into a united mission with Him.

Let us follow Christ who is a perfect leader and he will not leads us astray. Amen.

Shalom!!!

Chinwe Ann Udechukwu

MY REFLECTION ON THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

The three readings of today is pointing towards; Light, Unity, and God's calling. God brings light where there seems to be darkness, and he calls us to work together in that light.

*In Galilee, the people have seen a great light.*

From the first reading this is not just mere word, rather a declaration of hope and promise from God through Isaiah to the people weighed down by fear, suffering, poverty, depression, sickness etc. This shows that God whom we serve does not abandon his people even in our darkest moment, rather he makes a move to deliver us no matter the situation, but the issue is, do we believe in this declaration?

Most times we see ourselves in a situation that we doubt God still exist especially when we think we have been a faithful servant yet things around us aren't showing it.

In the second reading, “I appeal to you, brethren, that there be no dissension among you.”

Paul shows us exactly what it means to live in that light that Christ has brought. We ought not to allow pride, personal interest, jealousy, rivalry to exist among us, because it weakens the light and dims it, rather we should be united in mind and purpose of the crucified Christ not personality. It's quite unfortunate, the kind of disunity amongst us these days is alarming. Even inside the church we have groups of favorites and frenemies. Today St. Paul is telling me and you that there's no need because it doesn't promote God's light in us, rather it dims and quenches it.

In the gospel of Matthew, we see the fulfillment of Isaiah's message:

*“He went to Capernaum, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled.”*

This is a remote region which might have been looked down upon, but he started there and the light shines on them. This shows that God sees us wherever we are on this planet earth. There he saw two brothers and ordinary fisherman and called on them to follow him. God does not call by profession, irrespective of your profession, age, race, etc Jesus can call you at anytime but there's a striking thing in that calling, immediately the two men were called upon, what happened? They left everything and followed him, showing that responding to God's call requires trust and courage. Are we ready to follow Christ when he calls or do we belong to the group of holy Ghoooooost fayayayaya, it's not my portion.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, these readings calls us to examine our lives and know the areas that needs Christ's light and do everything possible to allow the light shine, those divisions and rivalry that quenches and dims Christ's light, we need to let go off, and ask ourselves if we are ready to follow Christ when he calls?

May God give us the grace to choose repentance, unity and faithful discipleship, so that the light of Christ will shine through us for others to see.

Eghe Okonofua

In the First reading Isaiah prophecies about the light of God, that is Jesus Christ. In the psalm, and 2nd reading, we are encouraged to make this light our focus and guide.

In the gospel, the prophecy of Isaiah comes to fulfillment through Jesus, as he relocates to Galilee, preaching and teaching the people of the land, leading them to salvation.

From the above, it is clear that each of us needs to open our hearts to receive this light of Jesus. Only when we have this light can we truly defeat fear, shame, quarrelling, jealousy, dissention and receive true joy and love in our lives.

But to have this, we must be open and ready such that when Jesus comes to us and says - follow me, we will be ready to immediately say yes, abandon the existing darkness and step into the light.

May the light of God, reach deep into the dark areas of our lives, and dispel it forever. Amen

Nwatu Jennifer Chioma.

Jesus was preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every infirmity among the people.

Funny how I see people say I have to pray/ I have to preach/ I have to go to the mountain to be with the Lord😊etc,. when a sick brother or sister is in need of our assistance🙂 as if to say the latter isn't as important as the former.

Don't get me wrong please 🙏 To pray is very vital in fact it is to be our nature through constant practice and commitment but we equally need to pay close attention to other ways God is asking us to draw close to Him. It could be through health care services, banking services, political services, Architectural services, IT services, Art works, photography, pastoral work etc. these areas can also be means for us to experience God likewise prayer which was clearly demonstrated by our Lord and Saviour in the Acclamation; Matthew 4:23.

Jesus acted with intention so must we,

Jesus carried out both activity together, he understood that both are of clear importance to the human person thereby giving us an example. We too must do likewise and remove every act of guilt, selfish or irrational thinking that might prevent us from seeing clearly.

Also, let us put in mind the words of St. John Bosco, the Patron Saint for Youths as he helps us further with these words; Run, Jump, shout but do not sin".

Also, the words of Saint Benedict Nursia can equally help us" Ora et Labora" (Pray and work)...

Let us ask God to give us the strength we need always and the grace to act in the right manner.🙏

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD(17TH JANUARY, 2025)

SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS ACROSS THE GROUPS.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
1st Reading: (Isaiah 49:3, 5-6)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM ( Ps 40:2 and 4ab.7-5a. 8b-9. 10 (R. 8a. 9a)
2nd Reading: (1 Corinthians 1:1-3)
Gospel Reading: *(John 1:29-34)

Chidinma Dominica Akpaji

REFLECTION

The Gospel narrative clearly present to us that we should have a clear vision of our mission on earth and stick to it.

It also presents to us that Christ is truly the Lamb of God whose mission is to take away the sins of the world.

When we have a clear vision of our mission here on earth as married couple, a youth, a religious or a priest, then we can boldly say in the words of Psalm 39: "Here I am Lord! I come to do your will". Both Isaiah in the first reading as well as Paul in the second reading have clear ideas of their missions.

We therefore pray that God will give us a clear insight to know and embrace our mission on earth. Amen

Nwoko Valentine Eziokwu

REFLECTION

'There is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world’.

John the Baptist was bearing witness to Jesus before others, pointing them in the direction of Jesus. People like John the Baptist needed to witness if other people were to come to Jesus. We have all come to the Lord through the witness of others. We don’t come to the Lord on our own.

We can probably all name people whose witness had an influence on our own relationship with the Lord. Their witness may not have been very explicit or even very self-conscious on their part. Yet, we sensed that their faith was central to their lives and shaped who they were and how they lived. Without their necessarily saying anything, their faith-filled life influenced us and helped our own relationship with the Lord to grow.

We can never underestimate the influence of our own faith life on others. If we are seeking to grow in our relationship with the Lord, the Lord will work through us. The fruits of the Lord’s working through us may not always be obvious to us. We may be disappointed that our own quiet witnessing to our faith is not having more of an impact on others. Yet, if we create a space for the Lord in our own lives and open our hearts to his Spirit, we can be certain that those we encounter will be opened up to the Lord.

As we grow in holiness, our lives will be quietly proclaiming, ‘there is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world’.

Elizabeth Iwuoha

REFLECTION

Taking a look at the second reading, St. Paul reminds us that we as Christians are called to Saints.

The question might now be, what do I do as one called to be a Saint?

This takes us to the instruction in the first reading and the declaration in the Psalm.

In the first reading, God tells us that we are His servants in whom he will be Glorified.

How will God be Glorified in us?

It's through our lifestyles.

Through the things that people see around us, that wants to make them turn to God.

How do we do these things? We do like the Palmist said, tell God we have come to do His will.

In our homes, our lives style should be the Gospel we preach.

At our workplaces/business places, let your lifestyle Glorify God.

Don't turn your workplace to WorkChop, be sincere.

Don't wreck people with hiked price at your business places, it doesn't glorify God.

When you do good for someone, don't become a demigod, Let God take the Glory.

Let us also remember that it's the little we do, not the words we say, that matters.

Be a living Saint,intentionally do something good today for God to be Glorified😊

Augustine Asuquo Udofa

REFLECTION

Before the birth of John the Baptist as the forerunner of Christ, John didn't have any idea about Jesus Christ even though during the visitation of Our Mother Mary to his mother he leapt for joy in the womb of his mother. He was only recognizing a greater personality before him but didn't know who this personality was and what he was coming to do.

It was at this event, that inspired by the Holy Spirit of God John could recognized who Jesus truly was and shouted: "Behold the Lamb of God who take away the sins of the world". And he confessed

"this is he of whom I said, "After me comes a man who ranks before me...". "I myself did not know him...".

In this our time, Jesus revealed himself to us in the Eucharist, in his Word, in his Sacramentals and in his Priests. Let us therefore take advantage of this and so be in Communion with Jesus so that we can be able to also reveal him to others for their salvation - which is the ultimate purpose of which Jesus came into the world.

Praise God.

Angela Igninazaka

REFLECTION

Recognizing the Lamb of God

These past week has been a very traumatic experience for me having to deal with my moms condition right from the airport to ICU and baffled with the fact that she didn’t show any symptoms in the last couple of weeks I was with her. The way I was able to recognize there was a challenge while sitting next to her draws me to a deeper reflection of my relationship with her.

So I ask myself a fundamental question; do I have this personal relationship with Jesus who is the lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world?.

Having known my mom since birth gave me the chance to recognize her as my mother with a smile the very first time I was born and this can be likened to my personal relationship with God that I should be able to recognize him in every situation and acknowledge his presence in them.

I want to bear witness just like John and proclaim that indeed Jesus Christ is the son of God.

Eze Ekenemaria

REFLECTION

BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD

In the First Reading, Isaiah introduces the Suffering Servant, chosen by God to restore Israel and, beyond that, to be a light to all nations. God’s plan of salvation is universal, extending not only to Israel but to the entire world.

In the second reading, St. Paul identifies himself as one called by God to be an Apostle. Through his ministry, especially among the Gentiles, he embodies this mission of bringing God’s light to the nations.

In the Gospel, John the Baptist reveals Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Jesus is the true Paschal Lamb whose sacrifice brings a new beginning and freedom from sin.

Together, these readings remind us that God continually calls and sends His people to reflect His light. As Christ’s followers, we too are entrusted with the mission of becoming beacons of hope, leading others to the saving light of God.