REFLECTION BY FR. COLLINS AKHIGBE, OP
SCRIPTURAL PASSAGES: 1ST READING. ISAIAH 4:2-6. PSALM. 122. GOSPEL. MT 8:5-11
THEME: CHRIST: OUR CANOPY
I was torn between taking the theme from the first reading or the Gospel. After much reflection, I saw the connection between the readings. In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah was speaking about the coming to an end of injustice which will be carried out by the Lord as he inaugurates a blessed age for the survivors. For all over, the Lord’s glory will be a canopy and protection, shade from the parching heat of the day, refuge and cover from storm and rain (Isaiah 4:5-6). We see the fulfillment of this prophecy in the Gospel. The Centurion through faith entered the canopy of Christ and this brought about the healing of his servant (Mt 8:5-13). Like the Centurion, if we recognize Christ as our refuge and shelter, we shall experience favour and blessing. If we key into the canopy of Christ, we shall find hope and purpose. When we recognize Jesus as our helper and canopy, we become more and more protected. In this reflection, we shall examine how Jesus is our canopy and why we should enter into the canopy of Christ. We shall also highlight how to enter into this unshakeable canopy of Christ.
HOW IS CHRIST OUR CANOPY?
The function of a canopy is to provide shelter for people to find rest from scorching heat. The canopy also protects people from rain and bad weather. The canopy provides cool environment for meeting, discussion, eating and playing among other things. Jesus Christ became our canopy by becoming one of us to save us from the heat of sin and death. Jesus Christ is our canopy by providing us a shelter in his Church. He gave us the Church to be a shelter for his people. The story of the good Samaritan is very instructive here. According to St Augustine, the inn which the good Samaritan took the wounded man represents the Church. In our days, many people find refuge in the Church because it is a powerful canopy set up by Jesus to bring comfort and consolation to his people. Let us therefore avail ourselves of the wonderful opportunity provided for us in the Church of Christ.
WHY WE SHOULD ENTER THE CANOPY OF CHRIST
First, this is the will of God. It is the intention of God that we accept Jesus Christ and find hope and salvation. This is why the scripture tells us that to those who accept him, he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name (Jn 1:12).
Second, we ought to enter the canopy of Christ because through him we find the forgiveness of sin (Jn 20:23). In the journey of life, sin is a heavy load, and when we enter the canopy of Christ, we find freedom from sin and slavery.
Third, we should enter the canopy of Christ because he is the way we are to follow (Jn 14:6). If we do not enter the canopy of Christ, we are heading towards danger and doom.
Fourth, we should always seek the canopy of Christ because He is the truth we are seeking for. The Master told us that He is the truth (Jn 14:6).
Fifth, we ought to enter the canopy of Christ because He is the life we ought to live (Jn 14:6). Jesus Christ is our life and resurrection (Jn 11:25).
Sixth, we should enter the canopy of Christ because there is no Salvation through anyone else, nor is there any other name under heaven given to the human race by which we are to be saved (Acts 4:12).
Seventh, we should enter the canopy of Christ because he is our burden bearer. He said come to me all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest (Mt 11: 28-29).
Eighth, we should enter the canopy of Christ because he is the light of the world (Jn 8:12). Outside his canopy is darkness. If we desire to see and live a life of integrity and virtue, we must enter into his canopy.
Ninth, we ought to enter into the canopy of Christ because He is the grace for the journey. This is why the Master told us without me you can do nothing (Jn 15:5).
Tenth, we ought to stay in the canopy of Christ because he is our fulfillment. He is our joy. He is our peace. He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Without Jesus we cannot find meaning and fulfillment in this life.
HOW TO ENTER THE CANOPY OF CHRIST
First, by accepting Jesus Christ into our lives (Jn 1:12).
Second, through repentance and conversion (Mt 4:17).
Third, through Baptism and regeneration (Jn 3:5).
Fourth, through faith, hope and love (1 Cor 13:13).
Fifth, through the Sacraments of the Church (Lk 22:14-20).
Sixth, through obedience and submissiveness (Jn 14:15,23).
Seventh, through a life of holiness and righteousness (1 Peter 1:16).
These are some of the ways we can enter into the canopy of Christ. May the Lord sustain us in his canopy. Amen
PRAYERS
Lord, help us to remain faithful in your canopy. Lord, deliver us from pride and stubbornness of heart. Lord, Please, deliver us from every occasion of sin. Lord, sustain us till the very end. Amen.
