Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

Pentecost Sunday –   May 31, 2020

Readings: Acts 2:1-11; Responsorial Psalm Ps 104:1ab.29bc-30.31.34(R.30);

 1 Cor. 12:3b-7.12-13 & Gospel John 20:19-23.

Theme: Birthday of the Church: A Fitting Celebration!

Sunday Synopsis

The Greek word Pentekoste which means fiftieth stands for a celebration which occurred 7 weeks after the Passover. It was primarily a feast of thanksgiving for harvest but was later associated with the giving of the law to Moses on Mount Sinai. It was on this day when all Jews at home and those in the diaspora came together that the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles. In the second reading, St. Paul underscores the importance of unity of the spirit when he said: “Jews and Greeks, slaves or free – and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” In the gospel, Jesus challenges us to embrace the missionary enterprise through peace and reconciliation!  

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, today is Pentecost Sunday – This day is crucial in the life of the Church because it marks the birthday of the Catholic Church. The word Pentecost comes from the Greek Pentekoste which means fiftieth. It was the second of the 3 most important annual feasts in Jewish calendar which occurred 7 weeks after the Passover and was primarily a feast of thanksgiving for harvest - first fruits of wheat crop were offered to God on that day. It later came to be associated with the giving of the law to Moses on Mount Sinai. All Jews at home and in the diaspora were expected to attend. Thus, there was no fitting day for the descent of the Holy Spirit than this. We shall reflect on the theme: “Birthday of the Church: A Fitting Celebration!”

Background and Summary of the Readings

The first reading (Acts 2:1-11) recounts the miracle of speaking in tongues on the day of Pentecost when a sound came from heaven like a mighty wind and filled where the apostles were. It tells how the spirit fell like tongues of fire on the apostles who spoke and Medes, Elamites, residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene and visitors from Rome (Jews and proselytes), Cretans and Arabians could hear them talking in their own tongues about the mighty works of God.  

In the second reading (1 Cor. 12:3b-7.12-13), St. Paul assures that no one can say “Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.” He goes ahead to state that there are a variety of gifts but given by the same Lord. Paul noted that just as one body has many parts, so also we though many are one in Christ. He surmised that: “For by one Spirit we were all baptised into one body – Jews and Greeks, slaves or free – and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”  

The gospel reading (John 20:19-23) reveals how Jesus appeared to the timid apostles with the message: “Peace be with you.” We are told he showed them his hands and his side and they were glad to see him. He then gave them the Great Commission: “As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.” He breathed on them and said: “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”

Pastoral Lessons

1. Speak in Tongues of Love: Today, the first reading reminds us to eschew any speaking in tongues that is bereft of concrete charity to our brothers and sisters amidst the current health crisis across the world.

2. Celebrate Diversity: Pentecost celebration assures that though many we may be, we are united in diversity which further calls us to live out the Church’s catholicity (universality) to the full.  

3. Celebrate the Church: Since Pentecost makes the formal formation or birthday of the Church, Catholics should realise that their church predates the Reformation of 31 October 1517 to 33AD when on Pentecost Sunday, the Church (Catholic) (Acts 2:1-4, 38-42) began – We are charged to proudly celebrate the Church’s birthday!

Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

Stories as Spiritual Lungs of a Continent: 15 Adaptations of Pope Francis’ 54th World Communications’ Day Message for Africa

By Justine John Dyikuk

1. There is no Continent of the world that Pope Francis’ choice of the theme of storytelling for the 54^th World Communications’ Day Message which was given in Rome, at Saint John Lateran, on 24 January 2020, Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales finds expression like Africa where the story-telling matrix is employed as a purveyor of truth and morals – Since as a story-telling people children often gather at the family compound or village square for tales by the moonlight in a typical African setting where the moon brings joy, light and energy to the community, we need to invest heavily in digital storytelling formats so that those stories of yester-years can be retold in modern catechism/catechises through VCDs/DVDs or Cinema and Digital television screens.

2. In a Continent is badly battered by years of colonialism, neo-colonialism/political shenanigans, militarism and exploitation of resources, the Holy Father’s message to avoid stories that “tear down” and strive for those which “build up” towards helping us to rediscover our roots and the strength to move forward together is key.

3. The 54^th World Communications’ Day Message reminds us about the critical place of forging universal bonds of unity. This is why it read it part: “We need a human story that can speak of ourselves and of the beauty all around us. A narrative that can regard our world and its happenings with a tender gaze. A narrative that can tell us that we are part of a living and interconnected tapestry. A narrative that can reveal the interweaving of the threads which connect us to one another.” 

4. Philosophic sagacity unveils the huge story-telling capacity of African peoples which further helps us to weave our stories from birth through childhood, adolescence, days of youthfulness, adulthood and old age to death in order to shape our convictions or behaviours towards understanding and communicating “who we are.” 

5. The Pontiff made the point that stories “give us not only the word textile but also text” to weave the thread of our “heroes’” narratives and ours as well, perfectly – This is a wakeup call for the people of Africa to remember their everyday heroes of faith like Saints Felicity, Perpetua, Charles Lwanga, Kizito and our Blessed Cyprian Michael Tansi amongst others too numerous to mention who were driven by the force of love which made them courageous in the face death so that “we can find reasons to heroically face the challenges of life.”

Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

Sixth Sunday of Easter, Year A – May 17, 2020.

Readings: Acts 8:5-8,14-17; Responsorial Psalm Ps 66:1-3,4-5,6-7,16,20; 

1 Pet 3:15-18 & Gospel John 14:15-21.

Theme: You’ll Live Because I Live

Sunday Synopsis

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the first reading (Acts 8:5-8,14-17) charges the faithful to imitate the early apostles by taking seriously the healing ministry of the Church through the power of the Holy Spirit. In the second reading (1 Pet 3:15-18), we are urged to always be ready to give an explanation to anyone for the hope we bear – in gentleness, reverence and a clear conscience. The message of the gospel (John 14:15-21) reminds us about Jesus’ call to love by keeping his commandments even as it assures that he would not leave us orphans.  

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, as we look forward to the Ascension of the Lord, the apostles were perplexed and worried. However, Jesus urges them to keep his word while assuring that he will not leave them orphans. This warm assurance was followed by the sending of the Holy Spirit. The sets the tone for our reflection titled “You’ll Live Because I Live.” The miracles recorded in the first reading were a consequence of the fulfillment of God’s promise. We shall scan through the readings with a view to deriving appropriate pastoral lessons.

Background and Summary of the Readings

The first reading recounts (Acts 8:5-8,14-17) how the apostles brought healing and joy to those who were possessed, paralysed and crippled in Samaria through the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit promised by Christ as the comforter is seen at work bringing succour to the sick. The people of Samaria enjoyed the gift of the Holy Spirit because Peter and Paul laid their hands on them. This becomes the remote stages of the development of doctrine for the sacrament of confirmation.

The second reading (1 Pet 3:15-18) urges the faithful to always be ready to give an explanation
to anyone for the hope they bear. Therein, St. Peter adds that that it should be done with gentleness, reverence and a clear conscience. He further maintains that it is better to suffer for doing good rather than evil. He surmised: For Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the sake of the unrighteous, that he might lead you to God. Put to death in the flesh, he was brought to life in the Spirit.”

In the gospel reading, (John 14:15-21) we are told that although the disciples of Jesus were overjoyed at his resurrection, they were nonetheless disturbed because he was ascending to the Father. They were perplexed and had many unanswered questions, much as they had when He was crucified – Was He going to leave them orphans? How would life be when their Lord and Master returns to the father and is no longer physically present with them? These troubling questions made the apostles sick as they struggled to understand the events that would unfold. Therefore, Jesus charged them to love him by keeping his commandments. He also assures that he would not leave them orphans.  

Pastoral Lessons

1. Pay Attention to the Word: Just as we were told in the first reading that with one accord, the crowds paid attention to what was said by Philip, we are challenged to develop an ardent love for listening to the word of God in scriptures and as they are interpreted to us by the Church’s Magisterium for the salvation of our souls.

 
2. Expect Signs and Wonders: The reading reminds us that signs and wonders are associated with believers who pay attention to the Word of God.

3. Minister to the Sick: The scare of COVID-91 has the capacity to dampen our spirit towards effective care for the sick – however, that unclean spirits cried out in a loud voice,
came out of many possessed people and many paralyzed or crippled people were cured reminds us about the importance of ministering to the sick in the name of Lord who is our heavenly physician that can do much more than we can ask or imagine.

Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

Fifth Sunday of Easter, Year A – May 10, 2020.

Readings: Acts 6:1-7; Ps 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19; 1 Peter 2:4-9 & Gospel John 14:1-12.

Theme: Jesus Our Consolation, Our Destination

Sunday Synopsis

The first reading (Acts 6:1-7) tells us how the early apostles were able to sort out issues without wrangling or rancor occasioned by discrimination in the distribution of food through establishing the diaconate ministry. In the second reading (Peter 2:4-9) St. Peter reveals Jesus as the living stone rejected by men but chosen by God who charges us to be faithful to our baptismal vows as a royal priesthood, a holy nation and a people set apart. The Gospel (John 14:6) presents us with Jesus’ words of encouragement to his disciples, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” In the face of COVID-19 epidemic, he invites us to follow him as the way, the truth and life bearing in mind that even if we lose our lives, our mansions are assured in heaven.

Introduction

Dearly beloved in Christ, before we understand Jesus’ paradigm and model of himself as the way, the truth and the life, it is crucial to recall some basics contained in the Penny Catechesis. The Church is divided into the Militant Church on earth, the Suffering Church in Purgatory and the Triumphant Church in heaven. As sojourners on earth, we the militant Church are pilgrims. Our target is heaven. But no one can get to a place unless he or she knows the way. No one can embark on a journey without an address, destination or direction. The first thing a taxi driver will ask you as you enter his car is, “where are you going to?” The second he will ask is, “where will you alight?”  It was in an attempt to answer these questions that Jesus clears the doubts of his apostles in the gospel with the words: “I am the way the truth and the life…” (John 14:6). In this reflection entitled “Jesus Our Consolation, Our Destination,” Jesus urges us to take our spiritual journey to the kingdom of God seriously. Ultimately, our liturgy suggests that we cannot get to the kingdom unless we know the way.

Background and Summary of the Readings

The first reading (Acts 6:1-7) tells how the early apostles were able to sort out issues without wrangling or rancor. Through an open door policy, dialogue and prayer, the apostles were able chose seven men of repute to help resolve the problem of discrimination of widows belonging to the Hellenists extraction by Hebrew women. This made them to concentrate on administration of the word and sacraments. We are told that the word of God continued to spread and the number of disciples and priests increased exponentially.  

In the second reading (Peter 2:4-9) St. Peter stresses that Jesus is the living stone rejected by men but chosen by God. He urges the faithful as a spiritual priesthood to offer themselves as a living sacrifice to God. He assures that anyone who trusts in the Lord will not be disappointed. The Apostle surmised by referring to the faithful as a royal priesthood, a holy nation and a people set apart to sing the praises of God.

The Gospel (John 14:6) begins with Jesus’ words of encouragement to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God still, and trust in me. There are many rooms in my Father’s House…” The text captures the sober mood of the apostles as Jesus prepares to ascend to his father. He assures of eternal redemption noting that he is the way, the truth and the life to clear their doubts, especially Thomas’ and Philip’s inquiry. In the end, Jesus promised that the one who believes in him will perform greater works because he is going to the Father to continue his intercessory and redemptive role.  

Pastoral Lessons

1. Harness Charisms: By abdicating the role of equitable distribution of food between the Hebrews and Hellenists while they remain focused on administrating the word and sacraments, the early apostles are teaching us not to discriminate between people but harnesses different gifts and Charisms towards taking care of both the spiritual and physical needs of all vulnerable groups especially during this period of lockdown occasioned by COVID-19.    

2. Constitute a Holy Priesthood: The message of St. Paul in the second reading that the faithful should, like living stones, build themselves into a spiritual house and holy priesthood invites us to offer ourselves as living sacrifices unto God bearing in mind that by the virtue of our baptism, like Christ, we are priests, kings and prophets.

 3. Follow the Way: Since Jesus is the way, he wants us to know that without the way, there is no going which should convince us to follow Him along the royal road of the cross.

4. Make Him Your Way: Make a way for Jesus because he is the way for your family, business, finances, joblessness and sickness especially Coronavirus disease.

5. Know the Truth: In a world that is polarized by lies, fake news, propaganda and both disinformation and misinformation, Jesus reminds us that He is the TRUTH even as He challenges us to know that without the truth, there will be no knowledge and truth in the world.

6. Make Him Your Truth: Make him your truth from Sunday through Saturday as you struggle with how to feed your children, stay put at home and engage in domestic chores as well as personal hobbies within this difficult period.

Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

Fourth Sunday of Easter, Year A: Vocation/Good Shepherd Sunday – May 3, 2020.

Readings: Acts 2:14,36-41; Ps 23:1-3a 3b-4, 5, 6; 1 Peter 2:20b-25 & Gospel – John 10:1-10.

Theme: Imitating the Good Shepherd

Summary Lines

The first reading reveals Peter’s edge-cutting homily on Pentecost which led to the repentance of about 3000 people. In the second reading, St. Peter urges us to imitate Jesus’ suffering and patience. The Gospel which describes Jesus as the Door of the Sheepfold warns us against going through another way. It assures that the shepherd will only open the door to those who listen to his voice. On Good Shepherd or Vocation Sunday, we pray for more vocations to the priestly and religious life even as we commit our missionaries on the fire-line to the care of God! 

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, the Fourth Sunday of Easter also known as Good Shepherd or Vocation Sunday invites us to measure our various vocations on the barometer of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. The Catholic Church teaches that there are two vocations in the Church which the Penny Catechism refers to as Holy Matrimony and Holy Orders – Little wonder, they are called the Sacraments of Christian Vocation. Since sacraments are ladders for climbing to the heavens, it is important for the ministers of the word and sacrament to reassess their vocation. Members of the laity too who are grafted to the Lord by the virtue of their baptism into Christ are given another opportunity to reflect on their lives to see if the family is indeed the Domestic Church which incubates vocations to the priestly and religious life. Our reflection titled: “Fourth Sunday of Easter” aspires to provoke us to reflect on the standard set for us by our model, the Good Shepherd.  

  

Background and Summary of the Readings

The first reading (Acts 2:14, 36-41) recounts how Peter gave an edge-cutting homily on Pentecost which led to the repentance and baptism of about 3000 people. It emphasizes that they repented of their sins and accepted the faith in fulfilment of the prophecies of old. It further revealed Peter’s testimony of the word thus: “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.”

In the second reading (1 Peter 2:20b-25), St. Peter calls the faithful to imitate Jesus’ patience by urging them to do right even if they have to suffer for it. He noted that although he did not commit any sin and no guile was found on his lips, when he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten but trusted in the one who had the will to deliver him. Apostle Peter emphasized that he bore our sins in his body on the tree so that we might live for righteousness; he further assured that we are healed by his wounds - although we went astray, we are now back to the Shepherd and Guardian of our souls.

The Gospel reading (John 10:1-10) presents Jesus as the Door of the sheepfold. Therein, Jesus warns against going through another way other than the door; he assures that the shepherd will only open the door to those who listen to his voice and follow his lead.  He surmised: “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I came so that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Pastoral Lessons

1. Seek the Holy Spirit: Pastors of souls are challenged to seek the Holy Spirit which has the power to make them preach edge-cutting homilies that are capable of changing multitudes as Peter did in the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 4:8-12).

2. Seek Repentance:  Just as Peter’s audience repented and were baptised, there is no better time to make a metanio in our lives than during this Coronavirus pandemic when the world is in a slow motion of deaths, fear, anxieties, hunger, joblessness and seeming hopelessness.

3. Save Yourself: St. Peter was not oblivious of dissenting voices that was why he warned: “Save yourselves from this crooked generation – this advice is timely and worth pondering upon.

4. Be Patient: Apostle Peter urges that when we do right and suffer for it, we should take it patiently – this admonition makes a lot of sense to our many brothers and sisters who fell for the venom of COVID-19 for no fault of theirs – This is not a dead sentence; you shall come out victorious through Christ who strengthens us and heals all ailments.

Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

Third Sunday of Easter, Year, A– April 26, 2020

Readings: Acts 2:14.22-33; Responsorial Psalm Ps 16:1-2a.5.7-8.9-10.11(R.11a);  

1 Pet 1:17-21 & Gospel Luke 24:13-35.

Theme: Journeying with Christ!

Sunday Synopsis

Our first reading (Acts 2:14.22-33), reminds us about Peter’s message on the day of Pentecost which blamed the Jews for killing Jesus but assured that God raised him up and they are witnesses to his resurrection. The second reading (1 Pet 1:17-21) assures that God is an impartial judge stressing that we were redeemed not with futile things like silver and gold but with the precious blood of the lamb. The gospel reading (Luke 24:13-35) invites us to daily walk with Jesus through his living God like the two disciples whom he walked with, invited to stay over, explained the scriptures to and eventually opened their eyes at the breaking of the bread.

Introduction

Friends in Christ, as we continue witnessing to the resurrection of Christ, our liturgy presents Jesus as a Chief Catechist who catechised the two disciples on the way to Emmaus who recognised him at the breaking of bread. Events leading to the Emmaus story had been that of gloom for the disciples whose hopes were dashed at the scandalous death of their Lord and Master. Feeling that noting was left of the missionary enterprise, the apostles went back to their fishing profession. Little wonder Thomas was missing when the Lord came visiting. His doubt about Christ’s visible appearance confirms their state of mind at the Lord’s death.

In their discussion with Jesus, the Emmaus disciples made this disclosure: “We were hoping that he would be the one to redeem Israel;” they also noted that some of them also visited the tomb and found things as the women in their group had told them “but him they did not see” – they were presenting an uncertain scenario but Jesus changed the narrative. This sets the theme for our reflection titled: “Journeying with Christ.”   

Background & Summary of the Readings

In the first reading (Acts 2:14.22-33), we are told that on the day of Pentecost, St. Peter challenged  the Jews for killing Jesus who was innocent and just by nailing him on the cross. He noted despite their wicked act, God raised him from the pangs of death. He maintained that they are witnesses to his (Jesus’) resurrection as the Holy Spirit gave them power.

The second reading (1 Pet 1:17-21) presents God as an impartial judge. Therein St. Peter reminds us that we were redeemed not with futile things like silver and gold but with the precious blood of the lamb. He indicated that this was destined for our sanctification noting that through him, we have confidence in God who raised him and gave him glory so that we might grow in faith and hope. 

The gospel reading (Luke 24:13-35) narrates the enthralling encounter between Jesus and the two disciples on the way to Emmaus. The disciples were discussing about the circumstances surrounding the unjust manner in which their people crucified the Lord when “Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognising him.” H, however, used the opportunity to challenge their slowness to believe the prophets adding that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and enter into his glory. Going back to Moses and all the prophets, he catechised them concerning what referred to him in the whole of the scripture.

Pastoral Lessons

1. Journey to Emmaus: We must journey from Emmaus back to the “Jerusalem” of our places of work and domicile to proclaim that Christ is indeed risen as St. Peter charges us in the first and second readings (Acts 2:14.22-33 & 1 Pet 1:17-21).

2. Treasure the Word: This rare privilege of getting first hand catechesis from the Chief Catechist himself speaks to the heart of the importance of the Liturgy of the Word which is the first part of the celebration of Holy Mass that precedes the reception of the Holy Eucharist.

Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

 Palm/Passion Sunday – April 5, 2020.

Readings: Is. 50:4-7; Ps 22:8-9.17-18a.19-20.23-24(R.2a);

 Phil. 2:6-11 & Gospel – Matthew 26:14-27:66 Or 27;11-54.

Theme – Emulating the Lamb

Sunday Synopsis

In the first reading (Is. 50:4-7), the Prophet Isaiah presents a suffering servant who willingly offers his back to those who stroke him and his cheeks to those who tore at his beard. In the second reading (Phil. 2:6-11), St. Paul reveals Jesus as a humble servant who although was in the form of God, did not count equality with him a thing to be grasped. The gospel (Matthew 6:14-27:66) also emphasized that Christ faced his death as a humble servant who laid down his life for his sheep. Our liturgy calls us to emulate the lamb who emptied himself and took the form of a salve for our sanctification, glorification and redemption.

Introduction

Friends in Christ, another Passion Sunday is here again. Passion or Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week. It reminds us of the messianic triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem to face his blessed passion and so enter into his glory. Today’s liturgical ceremony is meant to concretize our hope. This is because palms are signs that we are willing to march with Jesus not only in moments of triumph and glory but also in times of fall and agony. As we go in procession with the palms today, we are urged to proclaim Christ as our messiah without fear. Our reflection titled: “Emulating the Lamb,” reveals how Christ went to the Cross like a lamb being led to the slaughter. 

Background & Summary of the Readings

In the first reading (Is. 50:4-7), the Prophet Isaiah speaks about the suffering servant. He presents the suffering servant as one who willingly offers his back to those who stroke him and his cheeks to those who tore at his beard. He doesn’t turn away from insults and spittle but depends on God as his helper. Finally he says: “I have set my face like a flint, I know I shall not be shamed.”

The second reading (Phil. 2:6-11) presents Jesus as a humble servant who although was in the form of God, did not count equality with him a thing to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a servant; being born in the likeness of men. He further maintains that he was humbler yet to accepting to death on the cross but God raised him up and gave him a name which is superior to all other names under heaven. That is why, he also states, every knee must bend and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.

The gospel narrative (Matthew 26:14-27:66) discloses the Passion of the Lord. It reveals how the Pharisees and elders of the people brought up all sorts of charges against Jesus. It further demonstrates that although Pilate was ready to set him free, the Jews who once praised him with palm branches in their hands shouted: “crucify him, crucify him.” In the end, we are told that Pilate handed him over to them. Matthew also emphasized that Christ faced his death as a humble servant who laid down his life for his flock. 

Three Theological Insights About Passion Sunday

1. Jesus’ Suffering is a Sign of Love: In John 15:13, we are told: “No greater love can a man have than to lay down his life for his friends.” This sacrificial act of love reveals God’s love for humanity and the reason for Christ’s passion.

2. Jesus’ Suffering is an Invitation to Love: The scripture says “Love one another, just as I have loved you” (John 15:12). The love which Jesus demonstrates further invites us to love one another as Christ has loved us.

3. Jesus’ Suffering is a Revelation about Love: Mark 8:34 reveals:  “If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross and follow me.” This scripture discloses the depth of love God has for humanity. This covenantal love is equally expected of Christians. 

While our liturgy reveals Jesus as the Lead Actor in this tragic episode, other actors or extras can be viewed as prisoners: (a) Pilate was imprisoned by his own weakness; (b) Priests (The High) were controlled not by the Truth but by their lust for Jesus’ blood; (c) Peter was imprisoned by his own weakness and (d) Judas ended his life as the prisoner of his helplessness.

Pastoral and Practical Lessons

1. There’s No Pain Without Gain: Those in any kind of difficulty are encouraged to remember that there can never pain without gain, seat without sweet.

2. There’s No Vanquish Without a Victor: Christians like Leah Sharibu, the only Dapchi abducted Schoolgirl who is still in the hands of Boko Haram because she refused to be converted to Islam face persecution are urged to remember that there can be no vanquish without a victor and tomb without triumph.

Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk

Fifth Sunday of Lent Year, A – March 29, 2020

Readings: Ezekiel 37:12-14; Responsorial Psalm Ps 130:1-2.3-4.5-7a.7b-8.(R.7b); 

Rom. 8:8-11 & Gospel Jn. 11:1-45.

Theme: Resurrect that Dream!

Sunday Synopsis

Today, the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37:12-14) encourages the remnant of Yahweh by assuring that God will restore their land. In the second reading (Rom. 8:8-11), St. Paul distinguishes between Sarkinos and Pneumatikos - flesh and Spirit while warning: “Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.” The Gospel (Jn. 11:1-45) presents us with the raising of Lazarus to life after four days of being in the tomb. It narrates how many of the Jews who witnessed the extraordinary event believed in Jesus. In summary, our liturgy reveals Jesus as the Resurrection and the Life (Jn.11:25) who is able to do much more than we can ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20).

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, as we gradually draw close to Easter, God invites us to a spiritual renewal. Today’s liturgy calls us to reverse from a life of sin to the life of the spirit. It indicates that this requires a requisite faith on our part to hear Jesus speaking to us through the daily events of our lives. St. Paul indicates that: “Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.” Interestingly, in the story of the raising of Lazarus from the dead, Mary and Martha brought their sadness to the Lord who transformed it into a faith-experience. Our reflection presents us with Mary and Marta who knew that they could not do anything about their brother’s death except bringing the matter to Jesus who did the extraordinary, to do same.

Background and Summary of the Readings

The first reading (Ezekiel 37:12-14) tells us about the Prophet Ezekiel, a priest of the temple of Jerusalem. History reveals that he lived around 597 BC and was deported from Babylon with King Joachim alongside the first deportees. The prophet sings redemption song as the people count their blessings wrought about by the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Ezekiel encourages the remnant of Yahweh by promising them that God will restore their land: “Behold I will open their graves and raise you from your graves, O my people; and I will bring you home into the land of Israel” (Ez. 37:12). This message of hope is even clearer in Verse 25 of Ezekiel 37. The message is a prelude to the gospel narrative wherein Jesus restores Lazarus to life as we shall soon discover.

In the second reading (Rom. 8:8-11), St. Paul distinguishes between Sarkinos and Pneumatikos - flesh and Spirit. This resonates with what he lists elsewhere as the works of the flesh - immorality, impurity, and shamelessness; idol worship and magic, hatred, jealousy and violence; anger, ambition, division, factions and envy, drunkenness, orgies and the rest (Galatians 5:19-21). It surmises that those who dwell in the flesh cannot please God. Conversely, in Galatians 5:22-23, he gives the fruits of the spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control.

The Gospel (Jn. 11:1-45) presents us with the story of the raising of Lazarus after four days of being in the tomb. It relates that Lazarus who was ill had two sisters, Mary and Martha. Recall that Jesus was a family-friend. John proves this point when he said that Jesus loved them but did not come immediately when he learnt about the young man’s illness – he stayed two more days. By the time he showed up, Lazarus had passed on. He had told his disciples that Lazarus was resting and assured that he was going to wake him up. It relates that both Mary and Martha believed that if Jesus were there, their brother would not have died. It also reveals that although Jesus cried at the dead of Lazarus, he led his family to believe so as to see the glory of God. After he told the people around to remove the stone, he prayed and called Lazarus out; the dead man came out. He ordered those present to unbind the bandaged man and let him go. We are told that many of the Jews who witnessed the extraordinary event believed in Jesus.

Pastoral Lessons

1. Rely on God’s Spirit: Do not spend your life in the graveyard of quilt dealing with the corpses of the past – instead, rely on God’s Spirit to help you know when things are dead in your life so as to know when to release them.

2. Bury the Past: Chances are that if you continue to work with the dry bones of dead issues like self-doubt and guilt of the past, you too, will begin to decay – since no amount of work can resuscitate a corpse, all you need to do is to sign the dead certificate of those issues; bury the past and let it rest in peace.