I COUNT EVERYTHING AS A LOSS FOR THE SURPASSING VALUE OF KNOWING CHRIST (Phil 3:8)

⏰Wednesday of the Twenty-Sixth Week of Ordinary Time 2 (03 October 2018 – Memorial of St. Thérese of the Child Jesus)

📖Job 9:1-12, 14-16; Ps 88:10bc-11, 12-13, 14-15 (R.v.3a); Luke 9:57-62

Today, the Church in Nigeria celebrates the Memorial of St Thérese of the Child Jesus. The universal Church celebrates this on October 1st but, because of our Independence Day celebration, when we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lady, Queen of Nigeria, the Church in Nigeria got the permission to move this celebration.

Among other virtues, she is known for her devotion to God in every thing that came her way. It is already assured that God can do all things for us if only we can trust him, and him alone. The submissions of Job in Job 9:1-16 serves the purpose of reminding us of the omnipotence of God, which compels us to revere and submit ourselves completely to him.

Even in the midst of all his troubles, Job still recognized this omnipotence of God, and his nothingness without his mercy despite the temptations of his so-called friends to the opposite.

What is normally your disposition when life pushes you too hard and harsh? Who do you listen to at such occasions? Does your faith turn shaky in the face of crisis?

In his call to discipleship, Jesus emphasized the importance of firm and authentic response from his followers. He already made it clear that following him would not mean that everything would be smooth.

Hence, anyone who wants to follow him must weigh the cost and maintain a firm and steady followership. It is only then that we can be guaranteed a place close to his merciful heart, from where flows all things good and beautiful.

May the grace of God be sufficient for you in times of pain and temptations so that you may stand firm with Christ till the end. Amen.

Have a beautiful day ahead. Peace be with you.