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

SELECTED REFLECTIONS FOR THE WEEK

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (C)

The readings:

1st Reading: (Acts 15:1-2.22-29)

RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 67:2-3.5.6 and 8 (R. 4)

2nd Reading: (Revelation 21:10-14.22-23)

Gospel Reading: (John 14:23-29)

Malachy Uchenna Okpala

The Gospel reading is reminding me of God's love to his people. He has given us the reassurance of sending an advocate, a comforter and to grant us Peace.

He made me to understand that, it's only our love for God will enable us to witness all he has promised, so that we may believe.

Anyanwu Ugochukwu

God get plan

No be today we don dey see or hear say katakata or wahala enter inside where shildren of God gather.

D koko be say Baba God wey start am, kno wetin Ihm dey do!

From d tym wey Jesus dey around, till d tym wen ihm go, na so we dey hear one tory on top anoda.

From d first reading, we see as ordinary “membership” wan bring anoda wahala for where shildren of God dey o.

Orishirishi!!!

My pipul, d plan wey God get na say, *everi body go folo for this salvation thing, e no mata who u be or where u come from”* na the big plan b dat. 

Na dis plan wey Jesus want make me and u carry for head like market!

To make dis plan work, we gats learn how to use love rub everi thing wey we dey do. Sake of say, na original love na ihm go mak Christian see another Christian as ihm own, nothing like Yoruba Christian, or Hausa Christian… all of us na God pikins.

My broda, my sista, na only better original love fit make us open mouth praise God with awa numbas!

Na dis love wey Jesus say d Holy Spirit go bring… and e go let us sabi say with dis love, peace go full everywhere.

Na so God plan am!

Make me and you sef support dis work, wey be God plan with love and peace ✌️.

Fabian Dania

Let the peoples praise you o God, let all the peoples praise you!

Looking at the first reading side by side the responsorial psalm, the question that comes to my mind is: are you aiding others to praise God or are you constituting an obstacle on their path. God be our on help. Amen 🙏

Bro. Okolo Samuel (KSM)

Obedience to God's Word is the real Proof of Love

New Trends are sure to come, New Diseases, New Businesses, New Deals, New Fashions, New Songs paying Homage to the demons Mammon or Vanity, Venus or Lust, Baccus or Oringo, Abbadon or cults and violence all in the name of enjoyment and relaxation.

Every Child of God must first ask what did God say about this and Obey it. Seeking to know what God said about it is the beginning of wisdom and Obeying it is Love... These are the only ones that carry the presence o of God all around because they are after the very heart of God like David "A man after the heart of God".... The Holy Ghost annoints them with peace and comfort round about nothing ever frights them.... They are so sure footed.

These things don't just happen.

*Relationship with the Word(Jesus Christ) breeds trust in What he has said and trust breeds faith and Faith breeds unlimited Possibilities in Christ Jesus*

Whose Report will you believe today will you choose to believe God's Word today or Trends, Humans or Science Assumptions and Researches today over God's Word?

Like in our first reading if you choose human circumcision ssions to the Word of God that annoints us with the Holy Spirit (Who is Our own Seal and Circumcision) then you are laying Great Burdens upon yourself.

Holy Spirit help me trust you enough to Obey you even if I look stupid and Odd.

Comfort Mary Edewor

My Reflection on the Gospel.

"If a man loves me, he will keep my word" 

The above statement also implies that those who do not love him do not keep his commandments. Loving God  necessarily also means knowing him, for you cannot love someone you do not know. The promise of the  Counselor therefore is the promise of God to help the apostles remember what they have been taught. As we prepare for the coming of the Holy Spirit, we should all be deliberate in making sure we are adequately prepared for his arrival . The empowerment to preach the Good news without fear only comes from him. May God help us to be ready for this profound experience.

Lilian Ginika Edenweze

My reflections from the gospel our Lord Jesus Christ is saying to us that if we love Him we keep his words and Him and the father will love us and come to us. Most times we find it very difficult to keep this words of God because we live in a world filled with temptations but yet all hope is not lost because our Lord Jesus Christ seeing o nour struggles and has promised the Holy Spirit that Will remind us those words in other to keep it. With the Holy Spirit in us we will overcome the world and be able to keep the words of God and this in turn will make father to come to us. Therefore brethren let us continue to ask the good Lord to give us the Holy Spirit that Will give us the divine enablement to keep His words. Amen.

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

SELECTED REFLECTIONS OF THE LAITY

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ( C )

The readings:

1st Reading: (Acts 14:21b-27)

RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 145:8-9.10-11.12-13ab (R. cf. 1)

2nd Reading:  (Revelation 21: 1-5a)

Gospel Reading: (John 13:31-33a.34-35)

Catechist Joan Chukwuma Amadi

In the Gospel, Jesus gave a new commandment, saying, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35). What makes this commandment new? Were people not required to love before Jesus came? The love of neighbour enunciated in Leviticus 19:18 was a commandment restricted to the love of fellow Jews. A Jew had no business loving a Roman or a Samaritan. Not only was he not required to love his enemy, he was even entitled to exact an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

The newness of the love demanded by Jesus in today's Gospel lay in its range and application. This love has to extend to all mankind (cf.Luke 19:29-37). It must be like the real love that Christ himself had. One must therefore be ready to go as far as laying down one's life for one's fellowmen (John 15:12-14).

This commandment is new because the reasons for it are new: the neighbour is one with Christ, the neighbour is the object of the special love of the Father. It is new because it is radical. It gives a new definition to the meaning of authority. Authority here is a role of service and the power of those who exercise authority is the power of love which continues to ask: what can I do for those I love? How can I help them to be fulfilled, to grow, to achieve and to be truly happy? It is new because the way Christ loves us is radical. He loves us selflessly, sacrificially, unconditionally, understandingly and beyond forgiveness. 

According to Jesus in today's Gospel, that is how "all men" will know that we are his disciples. Love for one another first, and then for all people, was to be proof of the true Christian. "See how these Christians love one another" was a remark passed concerning the early Christians. And their love for their non-Christian brothers and sisters was proved by the hardships, and even death, endured by the Apostles and their followers, in order to bring the Gospel of Christ, the knowledge of their eternal destiny, to Jew and Gentile.

We must like them, live out the message of love and sacrifice which has been exemplified by Jesus our Master and by our ancestors in faith. It is love and sacrifice that are the summation of Christianity.

May God grant us the grace to love one another as Christ loves us through the same Christ our Lord. Amen!

Eshiebor Asemokhai Simon

The visit of Paul and Barnabas to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch can be likened: 

To a Bishop's official or episcopal visit to a parish (or a station or a deanery). A visit to the parish, he had erected and dedicated to God. To encourage the congregation of that parish to continue to walk in the faith.

It can also be likened to a godfather/godmother calling to check on their godson/goddaughter to see how they are faring and to encourage them to continue to uphold the baptismal promises they had made at the time of their baptism. I can bet that some "godparents" don't even know the whereabouts of their "godchildren". It's time to return. The church has entrusted them to you. It's a serious business, and not for show off. God will hold you accountable.

It can also be likened to parents and elderly ones visiting their children and younger siblings in their schools or residences to check on them and to encourage them to continue in their faith...

Brothers and sisters. We all can be like Paul and Barnabas

LET US RETURN...

LET US CHECK UPON..

LET US PICK UP OUR PHONES AND CALL.

To ensure those who have been entrusted to us are still living the faith and to ensure they have not been misled or carried away by the things of this world.

Vivian Agatha Oyih

My Reflection :

Behold the New Jerusalem is at hand, and I asked, as a candidate for the New Jerusalem , how are you preparing for it? As Christians, we are sent on a mission to ensure that everyone is carried along. This New Jerusalem is not just about us it's for everyone, and the only way we can carry others along is to spread love,  show mercy, and be patient with one another. Stop judging people from their past life, let us begin to see Christ in everyone, and relate with them in the way that we would please our Lord  and want others to relate with us. In all things, let love lead. Shalom.

Chinwe Clare Ibe

When Christ told the Apostles He was giving them a new Commandment (MANDATUM NOVUM DOVOBIS) when translated means A NEW COMMANDMENT I GIVE YOU, it doesn't mean He was teaching them *Love* for the first time but ' *making it a new commandment now* means reiterating the need and importance of loving One another more than ever before, the language of love had been the center of their teaching and learning, this He said to them so they'll form the habit of loving amongst themselves which would foster peace, unity, togetherness and a formidable bond in order to withstand the persecution out there. 

I believe the Commandment is for all of us today as Body of Christ. 

Shalom.

Ojo Emmanuel

The Outstanding Debt

_“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another” – Romans 13:8_

In the Gospel, Jesus gave His followers a clear command: “TO LOVE"...by this, everyone will know that you are my disciples.

Being a disciple of Jesus is not an easy task/ calling. It demands complete surrender:  _“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow me” – Luke 9:23._

The journey of discipleship can only be accomplished by the grace and power of God. Think about how difficult it is to love someone who is your enemy (someone who doesn't wish you well), let alone pray for them. As the Enduring Word commentary puts it, _"walking with the Lord through years of trials takes a resilient spirit and unwavering faith—yet we overcome, not by our strength, but because God is the one working in us._ with all the tireless efforts of Paul and Barnabas to nurture the early church, they ultimately entrusted the believers to God's care, confident in His power to preserve and grow them.

John’s vision gives us a beautiful promise of what awaits those who remain faithful:  “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man… He will wipe every tear from their eyes… and make all things new.” This reward is reserved for those who persevere through trials, tribulations, and continued in their faith.

Therefore, we are reminded to remain steadfast and faithful in the Christian walk we've embraced. Let us look ahead with hope to the eternal crown prepared for those who endure to the end.

May God's Word bring forth abundant fruit in our lives. Amen.

UBOH NGOZI MAUREEN

My brothers and sisters, I'm taking my sharing from the 2nd reading, it says : "behold, the dwelling of God is with men. He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself will be with them 

 

Here the good Lord is assuring us of his ever loving and abiding presence with us, it doesn't matter what am passing through now, the trials and tribulations surrounding me, my only assurance is, and should always be upon his promises , "that he is with me in every circumstances of life" and he also assured me that if am to persist in trusting him, that he will wipe away my tears, take away all pains, and make all things new for me. His promises and assurances always soothe me even in the darkest moment of life, for I know that with him there's always light at the end of the tunnel for those that believe.

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, (MAY 10TH, 2025).

Selected Reflections of OCCF Members

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ( C )

(GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY)

1ST READING: Acts 13: 14.43-52

RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 100:1-2.3.5 (R. 3c)

2ND READING: Revelation 7:9.14b -17

GOSPEL READING: John 10:27-30

DENIS UKANGE 

Every shepherd knows his flock and the flock knows their shepherd even by just hearing the master's voice.

Christ uses the illustration of "Good Shepherd and Sheep" to specify the bond he has with us.

But what I and You should ask ourselves is this, are we that sheep that the master know? Do we know his voice. Are we following the master's voice?

A sheep that does not follow the master goes astral. A sheep that goes astral fall into trouble. It can either be stolen by thieves or be killed by an evil person.

Therefore my people of God, if we are the followers of Christ and his sheep, we will do his wills, we will follow his voice, we shall be like the disciples in the first reading when Paul says, "For so the Lord has commanded us saying, I have set you to be a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the uttermost parts of the earth" ( Acts 13:47 ).

As a light, you will shine so bright and lead many to salvation. As a light, you're to defeat darkness. And as a light let there be brightness in your homes and in the hearts of those around you, for so the Lord has Commanded I and you.

As children of God with Christ-like Attitudes, may we be a flock that the master knows. May we be the sheep that hears the master's voice and follow him. And may we be a light that brings salvation to the whole world.

COMFORT MARY EDEWOR

The attitude of the Jews towards Paul and Barnabas when they saw how many new converts were joining them reminds me of what Jesus said concerning the Chief priests and Sanhedrin who do not want to enter heaven and would do everything to stop everyone else from entering. There were saints like St Anthony of Padua who left and went to the sea shore and started preaching to the fishes who gathered to listen to the word of God. If I try to win a soul through preaching the word of God and they refuse to listen, l am here by encouraged to keep moving and not lose hope . God has his time for everything under the sun.

The second reading reminds me that only those who have lived the life of righteousness that we have been called to and remained steadfast in faith till the end are worthy to be in heaven with God. What a profound picture of life without hunger, heat or any form of discomfort as we know today. A life definitely worth dying for.

The gospel hereby reminds me of the intimacy between our Lord and his sheep. If we familiarize ourselves with the word of God, it is impossible not to recognize his voice in every situation we find ourselves. If we remain rooted in his word, it will be difficult for the adversary to confuse us . May God give us such shepherds that would lead us to him in the end.

BIBIANA UZONWANNE

Jesus is portrayed as a good shepherd in today's Responsorial Psalms and Gospel. No matter how far we have derailed, He is always ready to leave every other just for you to come into His flock. This is because to Him you are very special.

Sometimes, when we are faced with difficulties it seems like God is silent but not at all. He is always aware of all that happens to us and as an amazing shepherd, who is caring and loving, He looks out for us and ensure to give us the best.

As a good shepherd, He always fights our unseen battles those times we are asleep in the night, those times we were almost knocked down by accidents or almost fall into a ditch, He was there to protect us (no be your wisnessoo). So we need to be grateful. 

Because He loves us dearly, He never fails to discipline us when we make wrong choices yet remains faithful and loves us unconditionally.

Today, we are reminded that of God's creatures, we are most loved and regardless of your challenges you can count on God because He is trustworthy, always attentive and concerned about you. Drop your worries. Just Let Go, and Let Him take charge. He loves you soooo much.

JOSEPH STEPHEN

The readings invite us, (ME personally ) into the comforting embrace of Jesus, our Shepherd, who knows us deeply and calls us by name. 

In the first reading from Acts, Paul and Barnabas share the Good News with passion, even when faced with rejection. It reminds me that following Jesus isn’t always easy; sometimes people won’t understand or accept our faith. But like Paul and Barnabas, we’re called to keep going, trusting that God’s love reaches everyone, no matter the obstacles.

The second reading from Revelation paints a beautiful picture of a countless multitude standing before God, washed clean and filled with joy. The Lamb, Jesus, is their Shepherd, wiping away every tear and leading them to living waters. It’s a reminder that no matter what we go through, struggles, loss, or pain, Jesus is with us, guiding us to a place of peace and eternal care.

In the Gospel from John, Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” These words feel so personal.

IGWE MARY BENITA

Sharing my reflection based on the three readings.

These readings highlight themes of:

Inclusivity and Mission: In Acts, Paul and Barnabas turn to the Gentiles after facing rejection from the Jews, symbolizing the expansion of God's message beyond traditional boundaries

Shepherding and Guidance: In John, Jesus describes himself as the Good Shepherd who gives eternal life and guides his followers. Similarly, in Revelation, the Lamb is depicted as a shepherd guiding the multitude to springs of living water.

Perseverance and Joy: Despite facing persecution, Paul and Barnabas remain steadfast, and the disciples are filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.

Reflection questions:

- How do these readings challenge me to share God's message with others, especially those outside my usual circles?

- In what ways do I experience Jesus as my Good Shepherd, guiding me through life's challenges?

- How can I cultivate joy and perseverance in the face of adversity, trusting in God's guidance and presence?

SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD (3rd May, 2025)

 

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C)

1st Reading: (Acts 5:27b-32.40b-41)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 30:2 and 4.5-6.11- 12 and 13b (R. 2a)
2nd Reading: Revelation 5: 11-14)
Gospel Reading: John 21: 1-19

Mary Benita Igwe

REFLECTION

The readings today emphasize the importance of faithfulness, obedience, and love.

In the first reading (Acts 5:27b-32, 40b-41), the apostles boldly proclaim the Gospel, despite opposition, showing their commitment to obeying God rather than men.

The second reading (Revelation 5:11-14) highlights the worthiness of Jesus Christ, who was slain but now reigns with power and glory.

The Gospel (John 21:1-19) shows Jesus' gentle yet powerful presence in the lives of his disciples. He provides for them and calls Peter to feed his sheep, symbolizing the call to serve and care for others.

Reflection :Ask yourself these questions as a Christian 

Are we willing to stand firm in our faith, like the apostles, despite challenges?

 Do we recognize the worthiness of Jesus Christ in our lives?

Are we responding to Jesus' call to serve and care for others, like Peter?

May we grow in faithfulness, obedience, and love, following Jesus' example.

Amen

Kenneth Ashiabuchi

REFLECTION 

Called to Witness, Worship, and Shepherd

 First Reading: Acts 5:27b–32, 40b–41 “We are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit.”

The apostles stand boldly before the Sanhedrin. Even under threat, they proclaim the truth of Christ’s Resurrection. Their message is clear: “We must obey God rather than men.” They are not ashamed of suffering for the name of Jesus, but rejoice in it — because suffering for Christ is a sign of authentic discipleship. The Resurrection gives us courage. The Holy Spirit strengthens us to witness — not only with words, but with joyful endurance in the face of rejection or suffering.

 Second Reading: Revelation 5:11–14 “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain!”

Here we are taken into a heavenly vision of worship. The Lamb who was slain — Jesus Christ — is now exalted and adored by angels and every creature. The Resurrection is not only a historical event, but an eternal reality. Christ reigns in glory. He is worthy of our worship, our lives, and our all. Our lives must reflect heavenly worship. We join in this eternal song each time we gather at Mass and every time we live in awe, reverence, and gratitude to the Risen Christ.

 Gospel: John 21:1–19 “Do you love me? Feed my sheep.” 

This Gospel is rich with grace and restoration. Peter, who had denied Jesus three times, is now given three opportunities to reaffirm his love. Jesus does not scold Peter, but gently heals his wounds and entrusts him with leadership: “Feed my sheep.” Before that, Jesus reveals Himself through a miraculous catch and shares a meal — a Eucharistic gesture of communion and love. The Risen Lord meets us in our failures and renews our mission. Love for Jesus must be the foundation of our service to others.

 Central Message Connecting All Three Readings:

The Risen Christ reveals Himself anew to His disciples, calling them to be fearless witnesses, to worship Him as the Lamb of God, and to take up the mission of shepherding His people in love and service.

 Theological Summary: 

- Witness (Acts): We are not called to be silent Christians. The Holy Spirit gives us courage to proclaim Christ in a hostile world.

- Worship (Revelation): Christ the Lamb is glorified. Our lives must echo heaven’s praise.

- Shepherding Love (John): Like Peter, we are called to love Christ deeply and express that love through service, especially to the weak and lost.

 Mundane Questions and Catechetical Answers 

 1. Why were the apostles not afraid to disobey the high priest?

 Answer: Because they were filled with the Holy Spirit and had seen the Risen Christ. Their obedience to God took precedence over human authority, especially when such authority went against the truth of Christ.

 2. What does it mean that Jesus is the Lamb who was slain?

 Answer: In the Jewish Passover, a lamb was sacrificed to save God’s people. Jesus is the true Lamb — slain for our sins, yet risen and glorified. His sacrifice is the foundation of our salvation.

 3. Why did Jesus ask Peter three times, “Do you love me?” 

 Answer: To give Peter the chance to undo his three denials and to heal his guilt. Jesus’s questions were not a test, but a path to restoration. This shows Christ’s mercy and His desire for true love over perfection.

 4. What is the significance of Jesus cooking breakfast and feeding them?

 Answer: It shows the intimacy and gentleness of the Risen Lord. He provides both spiritual and physical nourishment. This meal reflects His desire to be close to His disciples and prefigures the Eucharist.

 5. How are we called to respond to these readings today? 

 Answer: By being bold in our faith (witness), committed to prayer and the Mass (worship), and loving in our care for others, especially those entrusted to us (shepherding).

 Concluding Exhortation: 

Dear Friends in Christ, the Resurrection is not just something we celebrate — it is something we must live. Let us imitate the apostles by speaking the truth in love, even when it costs us. Let us join the heavenly hosts in glorifying the Risen Lamb with our whole lives. Let us hear Jesus say to each of us, as He did to Peter: “Do you love Me?” If we do, then let us “feed His sheep” — beginning with our families, our parishes, and those in need.

 Christ is risen. Let us rise with Him — in courage, in worship, and in love. Jesus, risen Lamb of God, help me to witness to You, worship You, and serve You with all my heart. Amen.

Gloria Obasogie

REFLECTION 

Jesus seeks out His disciples as they return back to their ordinary everyday life and guides them towards a renewed sense of purpose. The big catch of fish shows how blessings come when we listen and follow Jesus. Peter, who had denied Jesus thrice before, affirmed three times that he loves Jesus. Jesus then gives him the job of caring for His people, showing that love is key to leading and serving others. Despite Peter's failings, Jesus forgives him and gives him an important role of shepherding God's people. The gospel also hints that following Jesus may lead to great sacrifice. In all, the gospel reminds us of grace, forgiveness, and serving with love.

REFLECTION 

As a sinner that I am, God has shown me mercy. For waking up every morning to thank God, I am proud to say I am a witness to these things.

We are reminded to bring the gospel everywhere we go, both in character and in the services we offer, especially to the children we raise.

We must obey the commands and words of GOD and reject the words of man, which is full of deceit /sweet lies to lead us to damnation because of their selfishness.

So, brothers and sisters, please let us be among the witnesses to continue spreading the Gospel of God through the help of the Holy Spirit so we may be counted among the worthy on the last day.

May GOD help us all amen 🙏🙏🙏

Chinwe Ann Uchechukwu 

REFLECTION 

In the Gospel reading, Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples, meaning He was present with them in their various situations. Today, we need to open our eyes, ears, and heart very wide to see, listen, and experience the risen Lord in in our various situations in life; Do we experience and acknowledge Him in our various achievements and success? Do we experience He is with us in our trials, pains and suffering?.

Jesus asked Peter three times if he loves Him and boom! Peter got angry and said 'you know everything, you know I love you'. Peter didn't remember that he denied Jesus three times and in order to affirm the three times denial Jesus keep asking him such question.

Today Jesus is asking me 'Chinwe do you love me?' Today Jesus is asking you 'do you love him?' What will be your answer?

In times of trials and temptation, in time of serious seeking for fruit of womb, seriously seeking for soul mate, seriously seeking for financial aid, in sickness, Jesus keep asking you irrespective of what you are going through do you love Him? What will be your reaction?

Eghe Okonofua

REFLECTION 

We must obey God rather than man

This is easy when you have nothing to lose.

You want a job and you can get it only through defiling your body - obey God.

You're the new govt appointee, you have the opportunity to receive a massive bribe and still do the Job - just obey God.

You're at the point of death, and the only thing that can save you is to commit an evil act - please obey God.

You love him or her, and they claim you need to commit fornication before the sacrament, wouldn't you obey God?

In all things, let your mantra be - I would obey God before I obey man.

But remember to pray constantly, because only the presence of the Holy spirit in you can make you bold enough to make such a choice when you have everything to lose.

Obey God through prayer rather than think of using your own will power.

In doing so, it may not end well but would you not rather obey God?

 We pray for divine strength to always say yes to God in any situation, through Christ our Lord. Amen