For Jesus Christ, I Am Prepared To Suffer Still More -Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Priest, Martyr  

Deuteronomy 10:12-22
Matthew 17:22-27

Today the Church celebrates the memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe, who became a martyr when he offered his life for the sake of others in the Nazi concentration camp in Auschwitz, Poland. For him to die for the sake of Christ is gain. From a layman’s point of view, his action seems to be suicidal but for those who believe in God there lies wisdom and eternal life inherited.

Every day, we need the wisdom of God just as we need His protection. After all, Proverbs 4:7 tells us that “wisdom is the principal thing,” and in all our getting, we need to get wisdom. The wisdom of God will always disprove the ways of creatures. In today’s first reading, Moses admonishes the Israelites to remember the great deeds God has done for them and to turn to the Lord rather than being stiff-necked or stubborn. We may not always understand God’s plans as they seem to negate our expectations and lifestyles

In today’s gospel, we see Christ handling the confrontation from the tax collectors with great wisdom. Though, He is the Lord of lords yet He still paid his temple tax as an obedient citizen and today in a miraculous way, through the catch of fish as He commanded Peter to do. God provided in a way no one would have thought to pray for.

Be that as it may, today’s gospel also urges us to remain faithful to God at all times. Do you turn away from challenges that demand you to live and uphold the Gospel values of Christ? In what areas of your life have you failed to try to understand the directions and plans of God for you?

As children of God, we have the Holy Spirit as our daily guide and helper. We also have the duty to build our nation-Nigeria and to sow peace and unity through the Gospel values. As we go about our daily activities today, may we continue to experience God’s protection as we follow the Holy Spirit and lean on His wisdom when making decisions. Amen.

Fr Joseph Osho