By Roseline Idoko
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina-Ala, Most Rev. Isaac Bundepuun Dugu, has urged Christians to remain faithful instruments of God, emphasizing that the effectiveness of Christian ministry depends not on human strength but on God’s faithfulness and grace.
Delivering his homily during Mass, the bishop reflected on the readings of the day, drawing attention to the enduring power of God’s Word and its relevance to the realities of pastoral ministry and daily Christian living.
Quoting the Prophet Isaiah, Bishop Dugu noted that God’s Word never returns empty but always fulfills its divine purpose. He explained that this message serves as both encouragement and challenge, particularly for ministers of the Gospel and all believers entrusted with acts of charity and evangelization.
According to the bishop, the passage reassures Christians that God does not primarily demand visible success but faithfulness. While believers serve as instruments of salvation, he stressed that God Himself nurtures and sustains His Church.
He acknowledged the fears and uncertainties that confront humanity — including poverty, hunger, and sickness — but reminded the faithful that God’s promises remain constant. Referencing Scripture, he affirmed that God’s plans are directed toward hope and a future grounded in divine providence.
Reflecting on the Gospel reading, Bishop Dugu highlighted Jesus’ teaching on prayer, emphasizing sincerity over empty repetition. He encouraged the faithful to cultivate an authentic relationship with God through honest and heartfelt communication, noting that God already knows human needs even before they are expressed.
The bishop further called on Christians to embrace thanksgiving as a spiritual attitude, describing gratitude as a powerful force capable of calming storms, opening doors beyond human effort, and transforming hardened hearts.
Speaking on the Lord’s Prayer, he described the “Our Father” as a model that shapes Christian identity and vision. He stressed that forgiveness remains a defining mark of God’s children, especially in a world wounded by division, betrayal, and injustice within families, communities, and institutions.
“Forgiveness disarms hostility, restores dignity, and reflects the merciful heart of God,” he said, urging believers to become ambassadors of reconciliation and communion.
Bishop Dugu also emphasized the importance of surrendering to God’s will, drawing inspiration from the Blessed Virgin Mary’s response to God’s call. Allowing divine providence to prevail, he noted, brings harmony and order into human life.
He concluded by praying that the Word of God, which never fails, may accomplish its divine purpose in the lives of believers and in society at large.
