CCRN OAU Alumni – Advent Reflections Day 4 (3rd December 2025).

1st Rdn: Isaiah 25:6-10
Psalm 23
Gos: Matthew 15:29-37

In the two readings and the Psalm, we see God attending to his people by himself. He prepares the “banquet of rich food”, “fine strained wines”; he wipes tears, heals and provides for them. Such is the great love God has for us that he will not leave any stone unturned to make us comfortable and happy.

Prophet Isaiah continued from yesterday to paint a vivid picture of the evalasting joy, peace and abundance of the kingdom of God. It is out of love that God has called us into his kingdom. He wants to share everything he owns with us, hence, in the Psalm, he invites us into his sheepfold so that he can lead us into green pastures and restful waters.

Through the miracle of the multiplication of “seven loaves” and the “few fishes” to feed the large crowd in the Gospel, God teaches us that he is able to multiply our efforts. Therefore, we should never think that what we have to offer is too small. The saying goes that grace thrives on efforts. What effort are we making everyday for the kingdom? To realise our dreams and for a better society?

Today, we celebrate the memorial of St Francis Xavier, a Spanish missionary who preached the faith in Portugal, India, Japan and China between 1540 and 1552. The evangelization efforts of St Francis Xavier and other missionaries have produced millions of Christians and still counting. Let us be ready to offer whatever we have at any point it is required. Like the seven loaves and few fishes, God will multiply it to the extent that there will be left overs.

By Bro Damilola Akinmuwagun