Cossy 277

HAPPY DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
The divine mercy of God is a gift that is available to all who are willing to accept it. God's mercy is not limited to those who are already faithful to Him, but is open to all, regardless of their profession or level of faithfulness. This divine mercy is not based on what we have done, but on God's love and desire to forgive and reconcile with us. No matter what we have done or where we are in our journey, God's mercy is always there for us, waiting to be accepted. With God's mercy, we can find healing, peace, and reconciliation.
As we accept God's mercy, we may begin to experience the many benefits it has to offer. One benefit is the feeling of being loved and accepted by God, even when we have fallen short. This feeling of acceptance can lead to a sense of inner peace and contentment, as we know that we are forgiven and loved unconditionally. Another benefit is the strength and hope that comes from knowing that we are never alone in our struggles. With God's mercy, we can find the strength to face any challenges that come our way, knowing that we have a loving and powerful God on our side.
We can also find the courage to make changes in our lives. We may feel inspired to break free from old patterns and habits that no longer serve us. With God's mercy, we can find the strength to move forward and make positive changes in our lives. We can find the courage to let go of the past and embrace a new future with hope and faith.
Another benefit of God's mercy is the feeling of being part of a greater purpose. With God's mercy, we can see ourselves as part of a larger plan, working towards a higher good. We may feel a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves, and a sense of belonging to a community of believers. This feeling of being part of a greater purpose can give us a sense of meaning and fulfillment in our lives. Do you feel that God's mercy can provide this kind of purpose and fulfillment?
One more benefit of God's mercy is the gift of hope. With God's mercy, we can find hope in even the darkest of circumstances. We can believe that even in the midst of suffering and hardship, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. This hope can give us the strength to persevere through difficult times, knowing that better days are ahead.
by
BRO COSMAS CHINAECHEREM EBI

FRIENDSHIP AND SUCCESS

"It's true that the journey to success can sometimes lead to the loss of friends. This can happen for a variety of reasons. For one, pursuing success often requires making sacrifices and putting in long hours, which can leave less time for socializing. Additionally, the pursuit of success can change a person's priorities and values, which may cause them to drift apart from friends who don't share those same values. However, it's important to remember that true friends will support your journey and cheer you on, even if they don't understand it completely.
the importance of balancing friendships and success:
"While it's true that the pursuit of success can impact our friendships, it's also crucial to remember that healthy relationships are an important part of a balanced, fulfilling life. Friendships provide us with emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. They also help us to feel connected and valued. So, even as we strive for success, it's vital to make time for the people who matter most to us. That way, we can truly enjoy the fruits of our labor.
"Another thing to keep in mind is that friends can actually be a valuable asset on our journey to success. Friends can offer encouragement, wisdom, and even practical help when we need it. For example, a friend might be able to introduce us to important contacts, or offer advice based on their own experience. So, while we should be mindful of how our friendships are affected by our success, we should also recognize that friends can be a powerful force in helping us to achieve our goals.
by
bro cosmas

*NEVER YOU GIVE UP*
"Don't give up - it's a simple phrase, but it holds so much meaning. When the going gets tough, it's easy to feel discouraged and want to quit. But giving up is not the answer. Instead, we should draw strength from those around us who inspire us to keep going. When we see someone who is kind, compassionate, and always there for others, it's a reminder that we, too, can be a source of support and encouragement for others. You are that kind of person, and your example inspires others to persevere through difficult times. So don't give up.
"Your perseverance is contagious. When others see you pushing through challenges and never giving up, it gives them hope and courage to do the same. It's not always easy to keep going, but it's always worth it. The rewards of perseverance are great, and the satisfaction of knowing you didn't give up is priceless. Never underestimate the impact you have on those around you - your strength and resilience are truly inspiring. So, when things get tough, remember that you have the power to make a difference, and that giving up is not an option.

"Not only does perseverance have a positive impact on others, but it also has a powerful effect on ourselves. When we don't give up, we develop greater resilience and inner strength. We learn to face challenges head-on, and we build the confidence to take on even bigger obstacles. Perseverance is a muscle that can be strengthened with every challenge we overcome. So, when you feel like giving up, remember that you're growing stronger with every step you take. Each time you keep going, you're developing the inner resources to face whatever comes your way.
BY
BRO COSMAS

GOD STILL LOVE YOU DON'T GIVE UP.

Imagine there was once a man who was living a life of sin. He used every excuse he could think of to justify his actions: "It's not that bad," he would say, "and besides, everyone else is doing it." But deep down, he knew that his behavior was wrong. He felt guilty and ashamed, but he didn't know how to change.
One day, he encountered a holy man who looked at him with compassion. The holy man did not judge or condemn him, but instead offered him a message of hope. He told the man that he could change his life if he turned to God and asked for forgiveness. The man was skeptical at first, but the holy man's words struck a chord deep within him. He decided to take a leap of faith and follow the holy man's advice. He started to pray and read scripture every day, and he gradually began to change his life. With God's help, he was able to overcome his sinful habits and become a new person. He realized that he was not defined by his past, but by his present and future. He had been given a second chance, and he vowed to make the most of it.
This is a story of hope and redemption, a reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. No matter how far we have strayed from the path of righteousness, we can always turn back to God and start anew. It is never too late to change, and it is never too late to find redemption. So let us cast aside our excuses and our sins, and embrace the mercy and forgiveness of God. Let us strive to live a life of compassion and love, following the example set by Jesus Christ. For it is only by walking in his footsteps that we can find true peace and happiness.
BY

BRO COSMAS

whatever you do for the list of my breathers you have done it for me
" (Matthew 25:31-46, NIV)
As we can see from this scripture passage, the things we do for others are done for God as well. Even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference. When we help those in need, we are helping to build the kingdom of God on earth. This is a powerful reminder "that even our smallest actions can have a great impact. In the end, what really matters is not what we have or how much we achieve, but how we treat others. The true measure of our lives is not what we gain, but what we give. And the greatest gift we can give is our love and compassion for others. So let us go forth with this message in our hearts, and let us strive to be a light in the darkness, spreading love and kindness wherever we go. For it is in giving that we truly receive, and it is in loving that we are truly loved."
"Let us not forget the words of Jesus, who said, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." These words should serve as our guide as we go through life. Every time we help someone in need, we are helping Christ himself. And every time we show compassion to another, we are reflecting the compassion of God. So let us never forget the importance of helping others, no matter how small or insignificant our actions may seem. Even a smile or a kind word can make a world of difference.
Let's talk about how we can put this message into practice in our daily lives. First, we can start by being mindful of those around us, noticing when someone needs a helping hand or a kind word. Then, we can take action by doing something small but meaningful, like offering a smile, a word of encouragement, or a simple act of kindness. We can also look for opportunities to volunteer or donate to those in need. It's not about grand gestures, but rather about making a difference one small act at a time. And when we do this, we are truly living out the message of the scripture passage we are using for this reflection. and remember "When we ignore the pain of others or fail to help those in need, we may find ourselves engulfed in the "hair fire" of our own making. This is a state of chaos and turmoil that can consume us if we don't take action to help others. The flames of this "hair fire" can be fueled by selfishness, apathy, and inaction. But by reaching out to those in need and living a life of compassion, we can extinguish the fire and find peace. So let us not wait for the flames to consume us, but rather let us act now to put out the "hair fire" before it's too late. And when we do so, we will not only save ourselves from the flames, but also bring light and hope to those around us. Let us all strive to be a force for good in the world, and let us start today, right now, by doing something small but meaningful for someone in need. Even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. So let's get started, and let's put out the "hair fire" of our own making. 😊

Mother Teresa: said in one of her quotes "If you want to change the world, go home and love your family." And Mahatma Gandhi: "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." And finally, Dalai Lama: "If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion." These are just a few examples of the wisdom of others who have emphasized the importance of kindness and compassion.

"So let us all take a moment to reflect on how we can bring more light and hope into the world. Let us find one small way to help someone in need, right now. Let us all practice compassion and kindness, so that we can put out the "hair fire" of our own making. By doing so, we will not only bring about positive change in the world, but also find peace and fulfillment within ourselves. Together, let's make a difference, one small act at a time."

"Let us remember that even a single candle can light a room, and even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference. May we all be the light that shines in the darkness, and may we all bring hope and peace to the world. Let us be the ones who make a difference, not just for ourselves, but for all of humanity. And let us begin today, one small act at a time.

lastly- The smallest act of kindness can make a big difference.
- We must practice compassion and kindness, not only for others, but also for ourselves.
- The best way to find happiness is to serve others.
- We must start making a difference today, even if it's just a small step.

by

Bro cosmas care's

MY MISSION ON EARTH AS GOD'S IMAGE.

Dear friends,
Today we gather to reflect on our purpose and mission as God's image. As we go about our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in the busyness and noise of the world. But if we stop and listen, we can hear God's voice calling us to a life of service and love. Let us pause and reflect on how we can be a reflection of God's love in our own lives.
With gratitude and this is also some practical examples of how we can live out this mission in our daily lives. For example, we can seek out opportunities to serve others, whether it's through volunteering, caring for those in need, or simply lending a helping hand. We can practice gratitude for the blessings in our lives and express it through words and actions. And we can show compassion and kindness to all those we meet, even those who are different from us. By following these simple steps, we can bring more light and love into the world, and truly embody the image of God. 🌟

As an image of God, our highest purpose is to be a vessel of God's love and light. This means cultivating a relationship with God through prayer, contemplation, and meditation. It also means opening ourselves to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who can lead us to a life of meaning and purpose. In this way, we can align our will with God's will and become a shining beacon of God's love. ☯️

Let's now consider how we can bring this spiritual purpose into our everyday lives. For example, we can start each day with a prayer or meditation, setting our intention to live a life aligned with God's will. We can then bring this intention into our interactions with others, approaching each person we meet with kindness and love. We can also take time throughout the day to pause and reflect, tuning in to the still, small voice within. In this way, we can make every moment a sacred moment, filled with the presence of God

the importance of living with authenticity and integrity. As God's image, we are called to live with honesty and authenticity, being true to our deepest values and beliefs. This means being honest with ourselves and others, even when it's difficult. It also means taking responsibility for our actions and owning up to our mistakes. By living with authenticity and integrity, we can become more fully aligned with God's image within us. 🙏
By

Bro cosmas care's

Our Mother of Perpetual Help Novena

Reflections for January, 2024

REFLECTION DAY ONE

Thanksgiving

I am a fan of the footballer Lionel Messi, not only because he is a good footballer but also because his name reminds me of the French work for saying “Thank you” which is “Merci”. After he won the world cup some time ago, one of his former team mates, Dani Alves said that Lionel Merci is a footballer who always talks about the Almighty God. Each time he scores a goal, he makes the sign of the cross and points to the skies as a sign of gratitude to God. As we begin this New Year, it is important to learn to give thanks to God for every little blessing we receive. Sometimes we are more aware of our problems than our blessings. Let us begin this year on a note of thanksgiving. In 2018, during the world cup in Russia, Messi prayed through the intercession of our Blessed Mother, Mary, to win the world cup, and he promised Our Blessed Mother Mary that if he wins the world cup, he would celebrate it by running 30 miles from his boyhood home in Rosario, to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary of San Nicolas. He did not win the world cup that year. Four years later, he won the world cup. As we thank God, we can also do something to show our thanksgiving to God. We can show our thanksgiving to God by a new way of life, by going the extra mile in whatever we are doing. We can ask ourselves what we can do to show gratitude to God for this New Year.

The Holy Redeemer speaks:

_Do not be led astray…_

_Be careful who you follow or listen to…_

_Be a candidate of heaven and not of hell…_

_Shun selfishness and conspiracy…_

_Love the Confraternity and love the Redemptorist Congregation…_

By

Fr. Henry Ifeanyichukwu Nwokoro, _CSsR_

Bro cosmas care's

Happy new year, from my beloved father

Wonderful Words of Life: Sunday, 31st of Dec., 2023. The Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth.
📜Gen 15:1-6,21:1-3; Ps 127:1-5; Col 3:12-21; Lk 2:22-40

Theme: The Family; the Citadel of Love and Support System.

The parents of Jesus brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord)." (Lk 2:22)

The Church celebrates Jesus, Mary and Joseph as a model to every family. The family is a sacred institution of love. Everyone belongs to a family that helps us to define and shape who we are. The family is made of old and young, male and female, father and mother. The family is the basic institution that forms and educates the child. The parents as it were, are the first catechists that infuse in their children Christian morals and disciplines. Hence, the life of a child reveals what the home is like. The family is a community of love with people having different responsibilities. The Nazareth family exemplifies this as we see how Mary and Joseph presented their son, Jesus to the Lord in obedience to the Mosaic Law.

Jesus did not grow in a vacuum or desert but within the family and under the care and authority of his parents. Jesus came under a family, to bless, heal and deliver the family from every evil connection. Parents should know that their children are not their extensions and should be allowed to be who they are. They are bundles of mysteries. Mary did not understand Jesus all the time but she kept her cool and calmness. And she pondered everything in her heart. Parents ought to be gentle and patient towards their children. The priest Simeon revealed the mission of Jesus to his parents and the pain of the mother that a sword would pierce her. Mothers suffer more with their children because when something is wrong with the child he or she belongs to the mother. When the child is good, he or she belongs to the father.

Beloved, there is no perfect family anywhere. Every family has its shortcomings but we must always support one another. Fathers should have Joseph as their model who was always there to educate Jesus and support Mary in presenting the child and searching for Jesus in the temple. Formation of the children is for both parents. Fathers should care for, protect, provide for and love their homes. They should live and lead by example and be hard-working. They should not relinquish their duties to the mothers. Mothers should have Mary as their model who was respectful, submissive and obedient to her husband. They are to support their husbands and children. Children should have Jesus as their model to listen and obey their parents and elders (Ex 20:12, Eph 6:1-2). Parents do not provoke the children to anger. The family is under attack through the different unions; same s*x marriage, divorce, single parenthood and so on. When Jesus is in your family, it becomes a happy home.
Lord, from whom every father takes his lead, bless every family with joy, peace, and unity. Amen

Happy Sunday and a Blessed Week ahead.

By

Fr. Kevwe A. Unuajohwofia, C.Ss.R

Bro cosmas care's

A HOMILY FOR THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT YEAR B
FIRST READING: 2 Sam. 7:1-5.8b-12.14a.16
SECOND READING: Rom. 16:25-27
GOSPEL READING: Lk 1:26-38
THEME: An invitation to God’s Will

Annually, the Church celebrates Christmas yet the joy of the season seems invisible. Many tend to doubt the joys that accompany the season of Christmas. The children of Israel yearned for the coming of Christ and at his birth there was a great rejoicing. His birth heralded a new era in their history. Darkness was replaced with light.

Unfortunately, the celebration of the coming of Christ at Christmas is completely different in our time. It is a yearly routine. The expression of our joy has no root. Infact, it is during this period that for many, life seems to become harder as prices of products and services keep increasing as well as sins and other abnormalities. Could the afore-stated be caused by our refusal to accept to do the Will of God in our lives?

Accepting God’s will simply means relaxing our human desires, the cause of hatred and war (cf. James 4:1-3) to embrace the desire of God. God’s will or desire is simply for the salvation of man (cf. John 3:16). Mary in today’s gospel denied her will thereby accepting the will of God. With her fiat (Lk 1:38), Mary completely emptied herself, without any reservation thereby remaining at the service of God to co-operate with him to bring Light (Jesus) into the world (darkness).

Also, her submission to God’s will made her a tabernacle of God such that, those who came in contact with her leapt for joy (cf Lk 1:44).

Sometimes, I wonder what could have been the hope of Israel if the Blessed Virgin Mary had objected to God’s will. According to St. Bernard in his sermon; the desire of all nation was at the door of Mary, knocking to enter (20th Dec. Second reading of the Office). She welcomed what the world was yearning for (peace, justice, love etc) and gave it to the world.

Consequently, to have a new society, we must like Mary did, accept the will of God which showed her to be selfless. When we submit ourselves to God, he uses us as his instrument to do good.

As instruments, we co-operate with him to bring a new era in our history. An era where light will triumph over darkness, joy and happiness to the sick, aged, sinners, strangers, prisoners etc. When we do the aforementioned, the birth of Christ becomes a reality.

It is a privilege to work with God. In his will, he reveals his intention to man. Mary in her magnificat expresses a sense of wonder and joy at being offered such an opportunity (cf. Lk 1:46-55). And having understood the intention of God she became a faithful disciple to the end and even led people to Christ when she said “do whatever he tells you” (cf. John 2:5).

Also, St. Paul in today’s second reading says; “the mystery which was kept secret for long ages is now disclosed” (cf. Rom.16:25). This is one who co-operated with God and the secret of God’s intention was revealed to him. When we do God’s will we end up influencing the world positively like Mary and St. Paul.

Therefore, count yourself fortunate if God has invited you to work with him to change the world. Do not object to his invitation to do his will otherwise, it becomes an affront to God.

As humans, when we invite one to work with us on sensitive issues it means that we have confidence and trust in the person. Do not betray God’s trust and confidence in you. God is not doubting the good things you are capable of doing. And for a new world to be visible, we must like Mary and the other disciples who left their human desires to follow Christ also do same to wherever he might lead us.

Mary’s acceptance of God’s will made her the Mother of God. Infact, Jesus corrected the people when they praised Mary of being her biological mother when he said; “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it” (cf. Lk.8:21). This is what we stand to lose when we are bent on doing our own will. We disassociate ourselves with the family of God.

If you subject yourself to be a useful instrument in God’s hand, God will go to any imaginable length and extent to reward you. Mary’s Assumption into heaven is our hope that one day we shall also be rewarded when we will all meet in heaven.

I was never surprised when Mary said yes to the angel because she was full of grace (cf. Lk 1:28). It is only God’s grace that can bring the human will into harmony with the divine.

Therefore, as we struggle to do God’s will, let us also pray for his grace.

*PEACE BE WITH YOU!!!*
*BRO COSMAS CARES*
*HAPPY SUNDAY BELOVED*