Posts by Fr. Maurice Emelu
Life, Death, and the Number 4
Life, Death, and the Number 4, like characters in an epic saga, represent a foundational narrative in many belief systems, cultures, and philosophies. They interweave in a harmonious yet often perplexing pattern, offering solemn reflection and profound revelation. This piece explores the convergence of these motifs through the perspective of a biblical narrative, the Gospel…
Read MoreThe Ten Words: God’s Universal Roadmap for Success
One of the most profound dialogues in history occurs when God speaks to humanity. This interaction between the divine and the mortal is not an accusation or a warning. Instead, it is the outpouring of divine affectionate words, a pure act of love, and a precise sense of direction. Exodus 20 takes us to a…
Read MoreLove As a Joyful Experience of Letting Go
On this Ash Wednesday, which falls on Valentine’s Day, a reflection on love seems fitting. Love is a universal emotion, quality, and virtue deeply embedded in our hearts and lives, and its broad definition is commonly understood. Yet, let’s delve deeper into one of its aspects we seldom consider–love as a joyful experience of letting…
Read MoreThe Hoarding Epidemic: More than What Meets the Eye
Picture the jumbled mountains of knickknacks and clutter on the hit TV series Hoarders. It’s easy to dismiss such extreme cases as rarities, anomalies beyond “my” reality. “I can’t be that person or those people,” we might be quick to declare. Yet, beneath this spectacle lies an uncomfortable truth: a reflection of our broader cultural…
Read MoreCover-up: A Discussion on the Impact of Distraction on a Leader
David’s story in the Bible serves as an ideal case study for understanding human nature and the reality of cover-up. It exemplifies the best within each of us and our internal demons. In previous works, I reflected on some of David’s remarkable virtues–faithfulness, service, hard work, discipline, gratitude, and various leadership qualities. David’s attributes inspire…
Read MoreAnswering God’s Call: A Reflection on What Vocation Means in Today’s World
The call of Samuel (1 Samuel 3:1-10, 19-20) is a beautiful text for a theological reflection on what vocation might mean in the world of today. I provide a context regarding the concept of vocation in general and focus specifically on vocation in particular ministries. What is Vocation? Vocation (from the Latin voco, vocas, vocare,…
Read MoreShine
Embrace the call to shine your light boldly for the service of others. Learn about the balance between humility and visibility, and how generosity with your talents can attract blessings and growth. During my early days of ministry in the United States, a pastor who invited me to lead a retreat for his parish shared…
Read MoreIs the Road to Hell Paved with Good Intentions?
Yes, the gate to hell is paved with good intentions. Nevertheless, the path to life starts with good intentions, too.
Read MoreWhy Merry Christmas Instead of a Happy Holiday
This is why wishing a Christian Happy Holiday instead of a Merry Christmas is disrespectful of their culture and faith. It isn’t empathy.
Read MoreYour Worth, My Worth: A Reflection on Character
What makes us valuable? Is it our looks, our professional accomplishments, or our material possessions? While these things might make us feel good about ourselves, they don’t define our true worth. Imagine a shiny toy that looks impressive on the outside, but when you pick it up, it’s hollow and empty inside. Our worth isn’t…
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