Today’s Readings:
Job 42:1-3,5-6,12-17
Psalm 119:66,71,75,91,125,130;
Luke 10:17-24
The Christian journey will bring you trials and triumphs. We love triumphs more than trials and for good reasons. ‘No body wan suffer’. As pleasant as triumphs and victories can be on earth, they serve a bigger purpose. They are meant to encourage us as we go through life ("the valley of the shadow of death" as Psalm 23 describes it). They are not meant to distract us from our heavenly goal. So, when you record any progress in your spiritual journey, remember to stay humble.
What is humility and why is it important?
Thomas Aquinas defines Humility as “Seeing ourselves as God sees us: knowing that every good we have comes from Him as a pure gift.” James 1:17 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights ….” It is pride, more than anything, that tempts us to see ourselves through the eyes of the world and through the lens of others' opinions. Pride fixates us on our false sense of self; judging our worth more by what we can do (human-doings) than who we are (human-beings). Humility helps us see our littleness and keeps us grounded even when God uses us to accomplish great things. Remember what our Mary mother of Jesus said when Elizabeth hailed her for being the Lord’s mother: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour …” (Luke 1:46). God is our glory and joy, not ourselves.
Jesus corrects the false sense of victory today by refocusing the minds of the disciples and telling them:
I have given you power (the power is not yours but mine).
Nothing shall ever hurt you (so long as you stay close to me).
Rejoice that your name is written in heaven (not because of your transient fame on earth).
You are children of God (all you have are gifts from God which are meant to be shared).
The real gift of salvation comes from Jesus and He has chosen to give it to you.
The blessed assurance we have is that we have seen and touched Jesus in His Word and Sacrament. These alone can assure us of making heaven (our true home) at the end of our journey on earth. You have received God’s gift out of his love and mercy. This should make us more like Christ who came into the world in humility (Matthew 20:28).
How should you serve others with your gifts?
Stay connected to the source through daily reading of Scripture.
Recharge yourself through frequent reception of Confession and the Eucharist.
Invite the Holy Spirit into your life daily.
Make heaven the most important goal of your life.
Point others to God by your actions.
Add value by the services you provide.
Show people what is right and warn them about what is wrong (do not misinform them).
Be a useful addition to any group and do not just fill up blank spaces.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Lord, you have called and chosen me as your servant. Help me to use the gifts you have given me to shape the world around me for the best and for the glory of Your name. Amen.
You are chosen and specially favoured by God. Stand firm and you shall see and receive great things. Remain humble and you shall be exalted forever, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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