Posts by Fr. Nnaemeka Paschal Ajuka
What’s Wrong with Oaths?
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells his followers not to swear oaths. He is not talking about legal oaths in court, or the solemn promises made in a wedding ceremony, those have their place. What he is warning against is the casual or manipulative use of oaths to convince others we are telling…
Read MoreFilling the Vacant Place – Saint Matthias, Apostle
A Witness from the Beginning: Matthias came late to be numbered among the apostles. Saint Peter’s words describe the role of this apostolic substitute, who appears in Scripture almost as briefly as his fellow candidate, Joseph. The essential requirement for selection was that he be one of “those who have been in our company all…
Read MoreA Prophetic Gesture of Love: Mary of Bethany’s Anointing of Jesus
As we enter Holy Week, our hearts turn toward Jesus’ final days—a time marked by rejection, suffering, and impending death. Most people Jesus encountered during this journey responded with suspicion, fear, or outright hostility. Yet, in the Gospel reading today, just six days before Passover, we are given a moment of unexpected grace. Jesus is…
Read MoreThe Call to Righteousness
The call to perseverance in righteousness is a central theme in Ezekiel’s message. He stresses that each person is accountable for their actions, and righteousness is not a static state but a lifelong commitment. If a sinner repents and turns toward justice, they will find life. Conversely, if the righteous abandon their path and turn…
Read MoreFeast of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Patrons of Europe: Cyril (826–869) and Methodius (815–885)
Missionaries to the Slavs: Saints Cyril and Methodius were brothers born in 9th-century Thessalonica, in what was then the Byzantine Roman Empire (modern-day Greece). They became Christian missionaries among the Slavic peoples of Moravia and Pannonia (present-day Czech Republic and Hungary). Through their work, they significantly influenced the cultural and religious development of the Slavic…
Read MoreJesus’ Humility and Love
Reflecting on today’s readings, particularly Hebrews 2:5-12, in a world plagued by hatred and pride, reminds me once again that Jesus’ humility and love stand as a profound example for us Christians today. Recognizing Jesus’ willingness to humble Himself, become human, and suffer for humanity’s sake, we are inspired to: · Value Every Person: In…
Read MoreElijah’s Legacy: A Call for Renewal and Unity
Elijah’s extraordinary departure in a whirlwind (2 Kgs 2:11) left an indelible mark on Jewish tradition, symbolizing the hope for repentance and transformation before the messianic age. John the Baptist echoed Elijah’s stern call for renewal, while Jesus embodied Elijah as the prophet who suffered for God’s purposes. Elijah’s enduring legacy is his role in…
Read MoreLove Beyond Obligation: Paul’s Message of Kindness and Equality
Love and friendship can reach far beyond duty, revealing kindness that transcends social barriers. In his letter to Philemon, Paul addresses him as a “beloved friend and fellow worker,” expressing heartfelt gratitude for his generosity. Through Philemon’s kindness, the hearts of God’s people have been “refreshed.” Paul’s message speaks to the transformative power of compassion,…
Read MoreHow the Last Shall Become First and the Surprising Path to Salvation
The Unexpected Openness of Outsiders: The last becoming first and the surprising journey to salvation is a theme that recurs throughout the Gospels, challenging conventional ideas about who is truly close to God. Often, those who might be seen as outsiders, with little knowledge of Christ, display a striking openness and generosity that surpasses even…
Read MoreThe Power of Small Gatherings in Faith and Service: (Memorial: St Maximilian Kolbe, 1894-1941)
We often find ourselves impressed by numbers, especially within the church. We measure successby how many people attend Mass or participate in various ministries and events. But Jesus has adifferent perspective. He was not concerned with numbers; he valued the individual. In yesterday’sgospel, He spoke of the shepherd who left the ninety-nine sheep to search…
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