Dearly beloved, it is a reality in our religious doctrine that there is a supernatural being (God) behind our creation, existence and sustenance in this world. (How can you explain the beginning of the Sun, Moon, and Stars - though we can predict the next eclipse), God is still above all these!

The earlier we open up to the fact that, "Only God is able, stable and unbreakable", the better we make our world a better place to dwell. Ps.90:1ff tells us, "O Lord, you have been our refuge from one generation to the next...You sweep men away like a dream, like grass, which springs up in the morning...Make us know the shortness of our life that we may gain wisdom of heart". Sing:"Shepherd of my soul, I give you full control..."

 It is however hard to comprehend the thoughts of God and his plans, but through His wisdom (Grace to man/woman nature) we can patiently discover God's design for our lives. Book of Wisdom 9:13ff says, "What man can know the intentions of God? Who can divine the will of the Lord? The reasoning of mortals are unsure and our intentions unstable" Hence, join me to say, "In your Will, O Lord is my will". The more you have, the more you realise how much more you don't have!!! Humble yourself and let God take the lead, just follow closely. When God orders, even the devil must obey!

 God is telling you and I today to allow him take charge of our day-to-day plans. Sing:"Come Holy Ghost creator come...come take possession of our souls..." Just put Him first and above all other created things. Love him above all things and never forget to praise Him at all times. Note: You can't do it alone, "You need God", but he can do without you!

This explains the need for his grace: "A rod in your hand may mean little, but for Moses it made a way in the sea. Basketball in your hand may mean little, but in Mike Jordan's hand is worth millions of Dollars.

Tennis Racket in your hand may mean little, but in Williams’ or Nadal's hands it means greatness/fame". So, in whose hands are you now? God alone is your trustworthy father and friend. Let him use you today to achieve greatness, peace and love.

 The Poet Chaucer wrote, "He who wants a dear thing must give up a dear thing". Making love sacrifice is the watch word here. Deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Him. Fr. John Pichappilly wrote, "Our faith is a matter of commitment and not convenience. Our faith challenges us to make some act of sacrifice and renunciation". For instance, make God first, others second and yourself third in all your decision making ventures. Follow him closely daily not weekly (Sunday Sunday routine).

There is no part-time Christian! Declare yourself for God, through humble service to others in love. Love God more, then our family and things less.

 Finally, you too can't be a true and loving disciple/friend unless you give up earthly attractions and hold on to God and God alone. It is not easy, but with God all things are possible. Seek him first...others will be added unto you. God help us all. Sing:"I surrender all, I surrender all..."

Happy September

 Fr. Balogun Stephen

Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan