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27/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Thursday of the Twenty-First Week In Ordinary Time
(Memorial Of Saint Monica)

August 27, 2026

Theme: “Semper Paratus!”

My dear one, "semper paratus" is the motto of the United States Coast Guard, which we reflect on today. It simply means "always prepared." As Christians, we must always be ready for the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In the first reading, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Saint Paul reminds the Corinthians that they have been called to fellowship with Jesus. They have received many gifts from God, and these gifts are meant to build up the church, the Body of Jesus. The more they deepen their fellowship with Jesus, the closer they will be to God and their fellow believers.

In the gospel passage, Matthew 24:42-51, Jesus warns His disciples to stay alert for His return. Life on earth should always be lived in preparation for the end and the transition to the life after. This readiness must be constant, as the Lord will return unexpectedly.

My dear one, "procrastination," as we often say, "is a thief of time." Laziness has become common among us, and many of us hesitate to act promptly. Today, our Lord Jesus Christ calls us to remain vigilant at all times, so we are not caught unprepared for His return.

What should we do until He comes again?
1. Maintain good relationships with ourselves and others.
2. Engage in good works inspired by our faith.
3. Be consistent and persistent in prayer.

If we follow these steps faithfully, we can echo Saint Paul and say when Jesus returns, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7). Remember, time flies, so "semper paratus!"

PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I thank you for reminding me that time flies. Please grant me your grace to always be ready for the second coming of your Son. In your holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

26/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Wednesday of the Twenty-First Week In Ordinary Time

August 26, 2026

Theme: Reflect on Your Life!

My dear one, the readings highlight a stark difference between those who are sincerely aware of God’s Word and His presence in their lives, and those who profess piety but whose actions contradict their inner attitudes.

In the first reading, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10, 16-18, Saint Paul strongly criticizes laziness and those who neglect their responsibilities to their families. He urges them to resume work or go hungry.

In the gospel, Matthew 23:27-32, Jesus continues His critique of the behaviors and attitudes of some religious leaders of His time.

My dear one, a well-known saying by Socrates during his trial for impiety and corrupting youth states, "The unexamined life is not worth living." Reflecting on life involves evaluating past and present events. Through such examination, we learn from our mistakes. Without it, life is almost meaningless.

Therefore, as followers of Jesus Christ, we must regularly reflect on our lives. We should consider whether we are making meaningful progress. Humility should guide us. When others point out our errors, we should accept their feedback eagerly, in good faith, and make the necessary corrections.

PRAYER
My loving Father, I thank you for calling me into a relationship with you. Help me not only to be called a Christian, but to truly live as one. In your holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

25/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Tuesday of the Twenty-First Week In Ordinary Time

August 25, 2026

Theme: A Double Standard!

My dear one, do you know when Jesus will come? I am certain that you do not know, and I do not know either. We should love our God and serve Him as our brothers and sisters.

In the first reading, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 14-17, Saint Paul preached about “imminent eschatology", that Jesus would return very soon. As time passed and Jesus did not return, and the end of the world did not occur, Paul had to revise his understanding and teachings regarding those who died before Jesus’ second coming.

In the gospel, Matthew 23:23-26, Jesus reprimands the “elders” of the community who were not seeing the “big picture" but were focusing on minor details of the law. They were also concerned with themselves rather than the people they were called to serve. The leaders acted like little children.

My dear one, living with a double standard is very common among many Christians today. Why? Because, before the community, we display certain attitudes that seem to define us. But inwardly, we are often very different from what we show outwardly.

It is time, my dear one, to reflect and seek reform in our lives. Living a double standard will not save us; it will only destroy us. What we do in secret should match what we do openly. Our inner lives must align with our outward behavior. Let us strive to avoid vices and embrace virtuous living.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus Christ, forgive me for caring too much about appearances and for not exploring the depth of your words. Help me to recognize the importance of mercy and love in the world. In your holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

24/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Monday of the Twenty-First Week In Ordinary Time
(Feast Of Saint Bartholomew, Apostle)

August 24, 2026

Theme: Come and See!

My dear one, we celebrate Saint Bartholomew, who is identified as Nathanael in the gospel pericope. Saint John refers to him as Nathanael, while the other three gospel writers identify him as Bartholomew.

The first reading, Revelation 21:9b-14, emphasizes the role of the Apostles as the foundation upon which God builds the New Jerusalem.

The gospel reading, John 1:45-51, offers insight into what it means to be disciples of Jesus Christ. We are called to lead others to Jesus, the Messiah.

My dear one, a common attitude among us is judging people based on their background, education, tribe, or religion. We must avoid prejudice and seek to learn the truth about others beyond the surface.

As followers of Jesus, our lives should invite others to share in our relationship with Him. When asked about our connection to Jesus, we should invite them to observe for themselves, echoing Philip's words to Nathanael: “Come, and see!"

PRAYER
Lord Jesus Christ, grant me humility to always acknowledge you as my Lord and Saviour. Help me to refrain from judging others based on appearances. In your holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

23/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Twenty-First Sunday In Ordinary Time, Year A

August 23, 2026

Theme: Service in Humility!

My dear one, the saying "Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely" reflects in today’s readings. True authority is meant to serve the common good. We must lead with humility and love, not by ruling over others.

In the first reading, Isaiah 22:19-23, the prophet sternly rebukes Shebna, the palace master of Jerusalem, accusing him of misusing his authority, giving bad advice to the king, and failing to be accountable.

In the second reading, Romans 11:33-36, Saint Paul praises God, who surpasses all wisdom and authority, assuring us He will take care of everything according to His divine plan, which far exceeds human understanding.

In the gospel, Matthew 16:13-20, Peter recognizes Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. Jesus then grants him authority to lead the church.

My dear one, everyone holds a form of authority; whether as a priest, parent, teacher, doctor, or in other roles. We must strive to emulate our Lord Jesus Christ. Authority carries accountability and responsibility. We are accountable to those we are privileged to lead.

Remember that all authority originates from Jesus Christ. He has the power to revoke it from those who misuse it. As the first reading shows, the Lord withdrew His power from Shebna, who abused his position. Authority should humble us, not make us arrogant.

Jesus gives Saint Peter authority, which is meant for service. He is to be a servant-leader for God's people. This authority has been entrusted to the church. Her ministers should follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd, guiding the flock toward truth and eternal life.

PRAYER
Eternal Father, all things come from you, through you, and for you. To your name be glory forever. Grant me the grace to serve as a leader in all areas of my life. In your holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

22/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Saturday of the Twentieth Week In Ordinary Time
(Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary)

August 22, 2026

Theme: Jesus, Our Model Of Humility!

My dear one, it is both astonishing and quite sad that some of us will go to great lengths just to be recognized and properly acknowledged. Remember that earthly glories are temporary and will eventually fade away. Why concern ourselves with them?

In the first reading, Ezekiel 43:1-7, God is depicted as once again making His divine presence felt in the temple. He desires to dwell among His chosen people; those who turn to Him and strive to do His will.

In the gospel, Matthew 23:1-12, Jesus instructs His disciples to respect their leaders’ authority but warns them not to imitate their pride or seek titles of distinction.

My dear one, what is happening to our generation? Many are willing to destroy or even kill a brother or sister for fleeting glory or titles. We are eager to fight relentlessly to attain them. Instead, we should forget about titles and focus on serving others in charity.

Jesus humbled Himself, becoming obedient even to death; death on the Cross (see Philippians 2:8). He has shown us the way we should go. We must embrace humility in all we do and learn to serve others.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus Christ, grant me the grace to remain humble at all times and the passionate zeal to serve you and Your people in charity. In Your holy name I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

21/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Friday of the Twentieth Week In Ordinary Time

August 21, 2026

Theme: God, the Embodiment of Love!

My dear one, our reflections remind us that GOD IS LOVE... (see 1 John 4:8). This divine love is demonstrated through this act: "...that God sent his only Son into the world so that we might have life through Him." (see John 3:16; 1 John 4:9).

In the first reading, Ezekiel 37:1-14, we encounter the vision of the dry bones. This vision assures us that God will not forsake His people but will restore them once more.

In the gospel reading, Matthew 22:34-40, Jesus points out the two greatest commandments: loving God and loving our neighbor. These commandments are interconnected because both revolve around love.

My dear one, I am deeply moved whenever I talk about God's love. This love is genuine. Some might see it differently due to the struggles they face in life, but the truth remains: GOD IS LOVE! Our very lives serve as proof of God's love for us.

Therefore, as Christians, loving one another is essential. It is a fundamental trait of every disciple of Jesus Christ. John 13:34-35 clearly shows that loving one another is how others will recognize us as His followers. By loving one another, we come to know and love God.

In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Saint Paul outlines some barriers to loving others. I kindly encourage you to read his words regarding the challenges to love. Let us strive to be guided and inspired by God's love.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus Christ, may my love for you never fade. Give me the grace to love my neighbors sincerely and unconditionally. In your holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

20/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Thursday of the Twentieth Week In Ordinary Time

August 20, 2026

Theme: We Are Invited To A Banquet, Not A Funeral!

My dear one, the readings offer us a feast that surpasses all other celebrations. People from all nations have been invited to join this banquet. Surely, it is a time to rejoice in the glory of our Heavenly Father.

In the first reading, Ezekiel 36:23-28, God promises to grant a new heart to those chosen and responsive to His call.

In the gospel, Matthew 22:1-14, Jesus tells a parable about a royal wedding banquet to which many are invited.

My dear one, are you curious about the "juicy banquet" we are invited to? It is the Eucharistic Meal. Accepting this divine invitation is not a one-time decision but a continuous commitment that must not be sidetracked by sin and indulgence.

Those of us who have accepted this invitation through baptism, confirmation, marriage, religious life, or priesthood must embrace its logic and mindset. If we do not, we are no different from those who initially refused.

Christian life is like putting on a new suit at baptism, reflected in our daily conduct. We cannot continue in fornication, adultery, theft, polygamy, or drunkenness.

When we gather to celebrate together, we should consider:
a. Are we united by the Eucharistic Meal?
b. Are we prepared to receive it?
c. What is hindering us from feasting with the Lord?

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, grant me your grace so I may always accept your invitation and be worthy of the eternal heavenly banquet. In your holy name I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

19/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Wednesday of the Twentieth Week In Ordinary Time

August 19, 2026

Theme: Recognize and Cherish the Gifts of Others!

My dear one, do we have the right to question God's generosity and kindness? Can we truly assess His authority? He acts according to His will, and as His creatures, our role is to follow His lead.

In the first reading, Ezekiel 34:1-11, God, through the prophet Ezekiel, condemns leaders who greatly benefit from those they oversee.

In the gospel reading, Matthew 20:1-16, Jesus shares a parable about a vineyard owner who hires laborers at different times, illustrating divine justice and generosity.

My dear one, we often believe that our outlook on life is perfect. When someone acts unexpectedly, we tend to criticize them. Sometimes, we act as if our ideas surpass God's wisdom.

We have received far more from God than we deserve. He has blessed us with life, faith, love, mercy, and forgiveness. Remember, we do not earn these gifts or talents; they are a result of His infinite mercy and grace. We should celebrate God's gifts to others without envy.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for the various gifts and talents you have given me. Help me, through your grace, to use them wisely and to appreciate others' gifts rather than envy them. In your holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You!




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

18/08/2026

UNCHANGING WORD

Tuesday of the Twentieth Week In Ordinary Time

August 18, 2026

Theme: Jesus as Your Priority in Life!

Today’s readings challenge us to examine our attitude toward power and wealth. My dear one, many of us pursue power and riches because we neglect Jesus in our lives.

In the first reading, Ezekiel 28:1-10, the prophet Ezekiel speaks to the leader of Tyre, confronting his inflated sense of importance.

In the gospel of Matthew 19:23-30, Jesus discusses the paradox of surrendering everything to gain what is infinitely valuable, emphasizing that the first will be last and the last will be first.

My dear one, we should not be misled into thinking that wealth and power automatically make us first. Truly prioritizing Jesus ensures our rightful place with Him. Reflect today: do we hold onto possessions or aspects of our lives without recognizing God?

The prince of Tyre has built his reign and believes he is divine. God, through Ezekiel, rebukes his pride, stating that his power, wealth, and fame are nothing in God’s eyes. His death shows that all his riches and fame are fleeting. Remember, life itself is temporary; nothing endures here.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, help me focus on heaven. Guide me in grace, mercy, and goodness. When I am tempted to live solely for this world, help me see what truly matters and stay focused on that. In holy name, I pray. Jesus, I trust in You.




Rev Fr (Capt) Wisdom-Bakhita Yao Dziedzorm Anane (Chaplain, Saint Michael’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Central Ammunition Depot, Michel Camp, Tema)

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