Readings:
1 John 5:5-13
Psalm 147:12-15, 19-20
Mark 1:6-11
A trend that is catching on in Nigerian social media space is the phrase "No gree". Loosely translated, it means, "to refuse or reject something". It conveys a sense of self-determination, the need to take one's destiny into one's hands and not allow one to be derailed by the conscious or unconscious plans of others. So, to gree or not gree? That is the question. It is phrased in the negative to show that permissiveness is not a virtue. One has to refrain from what is bad to turn one's focus to what is good. But like any other trend, it will soon run out of relevance. The lesson that you as a child of God and follower of Christ can take from it is captured in today's readings.
Saint John tells us to focus on eternal life as the highest good that we can attain and never allow ourselves to be deluded into thinking that the world is all that we are living for. In the Gospel, Jesus is baptised by John and in so doing, he sanctifies the waters of baptism which is the doorway that leads us to eternal life. "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent" (John 17:3).
So, 'no gree', do not agree to the plans of the Devil:
Refuse to be mastered by sin.
Refuse to be a pawn in the game of advancing the kingdom of darkness.
Refuse to indulge your sinful desires and inclinations.
Refuse the company of people who brag about their sins and selfish ways.
Refuse to submit to the tyranny of people who believe your destiny and progress depend on them.
Refuse to accept the political status quo where the poor have to endure untold hardship that continues without end.
Refuse to settle for bad leadership and bad systems.
Refuse to settle for toxic relationships which lack focus and direction and endanger your goal for eternal life.
'Gree' for God, accept God's terms and reap its benefits both on earth and in heaven:
Accept Jesus once more as your Lord and Saviour.
Set your heart on eternal life with God.
Renew once more your baptismal promises and remain under the banner of the Trinity.
Frequent the sacraments of confession and the Eucharist.
Befriend and constantly invoke the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life.
Seek the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary (through the prayers of the Rosary).
Be faithful to your vows and relationship to God and your state of life.
Use your brand and platform to spread the Gospel and everything good, true and beautiful.
The goal this year is to take things one day at a time, to build your life and your future one day at a time. The battle for the salvation of your soul shall be won in inches, little steps taken in patience and total dependence on the grace of God. May God see us through. Amen.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud: Father, thank you for Jesus Christ. Forgive my sins, take control of my heart and lead me in your righteous path by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord. Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I surrender this day to You. Deliver me from temptation and evil suggestions. Let your Holy Spirit lead me on the path of eternal life. May every thought, word and action bring me closer to You. Amen.
God's grace and favour are upon me and on everyone that I shall encounter today. May His grace see us through all the challenges of the day through Christ our Lord. Amen. Jesus, I trust in You.
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