22/08/2026
On his shoulders.....
The choice of God can be mysterious and unpredictable. In building his kingdom on earth, God entrusts leadership positions on the shoulders of some ordinary men.
Going through scripture we find some examples. For example, why did God choose Abraham, Moses, and all those great biblical figures. In biblical studies we have observed that God at times overlooked the obvious and the highly qualified, and trusted his sacred duties to some people the world deem unfit. Will we ever understand the decisions of God?
In today’s first reading, Isaiah tells us that Shebna, the master of the palace was thrust from his office and in his place Eliakim, son of Hilkiah was clothed with his robe of office. And in today’s gospel passage, the Lord promised to build his church on the faith of Peter. Whenever God makes his choice, the reign of the chosen person becomes successful because of the following reasons:
Firstly, God takes charge of every event. Come to think of it, why is it that every institution and empire that emerged in the ancient era has collapse but the church stands? This church or sacred institution is founded on God and because God lives eternally, the church will also live eternally. If God has chosen you as his leader know that he will always be with you.
Secondly, the chosen person’s reign will be successful because he is just an instrument in the hands of God. St. Paul will describe it as “the Christ in Me.” The success of the leader should be narrowed down to the fact that God is using him as his instrument.
Thirdly, the wisdom behind the person’s leadership can be sourced directly from God. When divinely chosen people lead, certain words that emerge from their lips surprises them.
Some of these leaders have confessed to their close friends that at times some of their breakthroughs and achievements come under the direct influence of the Holy Spirit.
Fourthly, God builds successful reigns through teamwork. When it comes to teamwork, one biblical reference I love so much is Exodus 31:1ff. The inspired writer wrote: “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Look, I have specifically chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts. He is a master craftsman, expert in working in gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft!”
In the history of the papacy, the most successful popes have had reliable and trusted righthand men. In recent times we cannot forget the collaborative work between Pope St. John Paul II and Josef Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI). Today in the gospel passage, we read of the choice of St. Peter, but we can never forget his secretary, John Mark.
The chosen should always give glory to God and honor to the Blessed Virgin Mary because it is never by their personal efforts.
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP PRAY FOR US.
Catholic Diocese of Konongo-Mampong
Department of Social Communication - Catholic Diocese of Sunyani
Kumasi Archdiocese
Catholic Diocese of Obuasi
Catholic Diocese of Goaso
Catholic Diocese of Techiman
Catholic Photography
Catholic Trends
CAK TV GH
