Faith in the Words of God

 Reflection on Today's Reading, Wednesday, 25th Week in Ordinary Time Year II, and the Memorial of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, September 23rd, 2020

Texts: Prov. 30:5-9; Ps. 119:29.72.89.101.104; Luke 9:1-6

Today's first reading is a call to faith in God's word. It says, "Every word of God proves truth; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him." The word of God is true; it stands firm for ever. The word of God does not cast shadow; it enlightens us and clear our vision. Hence, the response to today's psalm goes thus: "Your word is a lamp for my feet, Lord." The word of God does not fail and always come to past.

The word of God, as the truth, is also a shield, that is, it has a protective power. The word of God equips us with the prerequisites for determining and isolating falsehood and lie; it protects us against the wiles of the devil and the philosophy of the world. In the words of St. Paul, "All scriptures is inspired by God and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belong to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work" (2Tim. 3:16-17). With truth, the word of God, we are able to stand and resist the devil.

The word of God is true and so does not need our addition or reduction. Hence, the reading warns, "Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you, and you be found a liar." The reading reminds us to stay away from falsehood and lying.  It instructs us to be truthful. 

We are also reminded to moderate our desire; we are to avoid the two extremes excess and deprivation. It is written thus: "give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full, and deny you , and say, 'who is the Lord?' or lest I be poor, and steal, and profane the name of my God." Both excess and deprivation are not good: excess breeds pride, while the deprivation breeds dishonour. When our desires are moderated, it comes with integrity and honour.

The twelve apostles are sent out in today's gospel reading to preach the kingdom of God and to heal, given power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases. The success in preaching the kingdom and exercising the power and authority depends on their staying with the truth; they are not to add or reduce from the message. The effectiveness and efficacy of the ministry of the words depend on keeping the truth.

Today is the Memorial of St. Padre Pio, a stigmatist and priest of capuchin Franciscan. When he faced challenges as result of his stigmata, he bore it with profound humility and resignation. It is said he often repeated the words: "I am a poor Franciscan who prays." He was a man of prayer. We are to learn from him humility, resignation to God's Will and prayer.

Lord our God, open our eyes to see the truth of your words and we pray you to confirm our faith in them. Amen.

Rev. Fr. Andrew Olowomuke