Homily Blog

Both Philippians 2 and Matthew 21 reveal the distance between what appears on the outside and what is actually happening in the heart. The key may indeed be Paul's phrase in the second reading of this weekend: “Have in you the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus.” Hence, the readings contrast attitudes that point to the nature of the human heart. While the parable gives us two imperfect sons, Philippians gives us the true Son. The first son in the gospel says, “I will not,” but...

A Message to Our Readers — September: The Weight He Carries Remain In My Love September newsletter turns our attention to the quiet, often unseen weight men carry — in their families, in their work, and in the wider world. Every man shoulders responsibilities, expectations, pressures, and wounds that are rarely spoken aloud. But the real crisis is not that men carry so much; it’s how they respond to these burdens. Many men respond with silence, isolation, overwork, anger, or emotional...

Emeka's House is more than just a building. It has become a safe and loving home where children can grow, learn, and experience joy. With hearts filled with gratitude and excitement, the children could not help but sing and celebrate as a new chapter began for their home. We are grateful to announce that solar power has been installed at Emeka House, providing stable electricity for the children and powering essential facilities in the home. This important addition will make a meaningful...

25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME: RELATIONSHIP VERSUS TRANSACTION: WHEN LOVE KEEPS A LEDGER These three questions sum up both the theology and the psychology of today’s readings: 1. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? 2. Am I not free to do as I wish with my own money (what belongs to me)? 3. Are you envious because I am generous? Each of these questions shows human thinking as against God’s generosity. We are often discontent with what God has given us. We resent...

These three questions sum up both the theology and the psychology of today’s readings: 1. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? 2. Am I not free to do as I wish with my own money (what belongs to me)? 3. Are you envious because I am generous? Each of these questions shows human thinking as against God’s generosity. We are often discontent with what God has given us. We resent others. We long for more. We compare ourselves with others —friends, classmates, neighbors,...

23RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME: LOVE, A DEBT THAT IS NEVER PAID OFF An interesting episode in Grey’s Anatomy. Dr. Teddy Altman encounters a seriously ill patient who desperately needs surgery, but his insurance will not cover the treatment. She pleads with the hospital to make an exception, but her efforts fail. The young man is left with the possibility of going home without treatment and eventually dying. Then Dr. Altman thinks of something radical. She tells him, “You know I have good...

An interesting episode in Grey’s Anatomy. Dr. Teddy Altman encounters a seriously ill patient who desperately needs surgery, but his insurance will not cover the treatment. She pleads with the hospital to make an exception, but her efforts fail. The young man is left with the possibility of going home without treatment and eventually dying. Then Dr. Altman thinks of something radical. She tells him, “You know I have good insurance.” He does not immediately understand. Then she tells him that...

REMAIN IN MY LOVE SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | VOLUME 1 REMAIN IN MY LOVE NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 2026 | VOLUME 1 Posted by Vincent Arisukwu, 2 Welcome to September 2026, Volume 1 of the Remain In My Love Newsletter. This edition brings together two powerful reflections from our recent conversations, both centered on one of the most important parts of our human experience: connection. Why do we need people, and how do our stories shape the way we love? And what determines the psycho-spiritual side of...

Welcome to September 2026, Volume 1 of the Remain In My Love Newsletter. This edition brings together two powerful reflections from our recent conversations, both centered on one of the most important parts of our human experience: connection. Why do we need people, and how do our stories shape the way we love? And what determines the psycho-spiritual side of relationships — particularly how our upbringing, experiences, and attachment patterns influence the way we connect with others? This...

The prophet Jeremiah’s lamentation seems to open this track when he exclaims: “You duped me, O Lord, and I let myself be duped; you were too strong for me, and you triumphed. All day I am an object of laughter; everyone mocks me” (Jer. 20:7). This resembles the cry of failure, of someone who faces disappointment, as if an investment has taken the wrong turn. Jeremiah’s belief is that he is not ready for the mission. His response to the invitation explains this lack of motivation: “Ah, ah,...

In Caesarea Philippi, Jesus initially poses a question to His disciples: “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” This inquiry seeks straightforward information about public perception. The disciples quickly reply, “Some say John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” It’s clear that many have opinions about Jesus. However, when Jesus rephrases the question as, “But who do you say that I am?” it becomes a profound challenge. He shifts from asking about...

Happy birthday to my niece, Muna. Grow in faith and blessings. The prophet Isaiah begins the theme of prayer by reminding his audience that God’s house is a house of prayer for all people. This sets the tone for what happens in the gospel when elements of prayer and inclusivity are present through the encounter with the Canaanite woman. Prayers can try our faith, yet faith pushes us to the finish line. The gospel of Matthew shows Jesus deliberately leaving Galilee. He is traveling to the...