By Oluchi Jacinta Okorie, Abuja
Treasure Christ Above All Things, Show Love to the Elderly, Rev. Fr. Imadonmwinyi Charges Faithful
Reverend Father Michael Imadonmwinyi of Saint Gabriel Chaplaincy, Catholic Secretariat, Abuja, has urged Christians to make Jesus Christ the greatest treasure of their lives, while calling on families and communities to demonstrate genuine love, care, and respect for the elderly.
Father Imadonmwinyi gave the charge during his Sunday homily on July 26, where he reflected on the biblical account of King Solomon and the wisdom granted to him by God.
The priest noted that Solomon was presented with a rare opportunity to ask for anything he desired but chose an understanding heart capable of distinguishing between good and evil, rather than riches, power, fame, or long life.
He explained that Solomon’s choice remains a timeless lesson for believers, stressing that true greatness is not measured by material possessions, political influence, or human achievements, but by a heart committed to God’s will and service to others.
“Only those who treasure Christ will live a life that truly matters,” Father Imadonmwinyi said, adding that the wisdom of Solomon points believers to the perfect wisdom found in Jesus Christ, who remains the ultimate source of truth, peace, and salvation.
Reflecting on the Gospel reading, the homilist highlighted Christ’s parables of the hidden treasure and the priceless pearl, explaining that they reveal the immeasurable value of the Kingdom of God.
He said the individuals in the parables were willing to sacrifice everything because they discovered something far more precious than all they previously possessed.
According to him, God’s invitation to abandon sin, pride, selfishness, resentment, and unhealthy attachments is not a deprivation of happiness but a pathway to discovering true and lasting joy.
“God never asks us to surrender something without offering something greater in return,” he stated.
Father Imadonmwinyi also reminded the faithful of the words of Saint Augustine: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you,” stressing that only God can satisfy the deepest desires of the human heart.
The priest further used the occasion to highlight the importance of grandparents and the elderly, describing them as precious gifts and custodians of faith, wisdom, and family values.
He noted that elderly people possess a deeper understanding of life, having witnessed that beauty fades, careers end, and material possessions eventually pass away, while faith, love, and goodness remain lasting treasures.
Quoting God’s assurance through Prophet Isaiah, “I will never forget you,” Father Imadonmwinyi said the message serves as a reminder that God’s love for the elderly remains constant, even in moments of loneliness, neglect, or abandonment.
He challenged families and society to reflect this divine love by ensuring that elderly parents and grandparents are treated with dignity and compassion.
“If God never forgets the elderly, we also must not forget them,” he admonished.
The priest condemned the practice of neglecting aged parents during their lifetime only to organise elaborate funeral ceremonies after their death, describing such actions as a failure to show genuine love.
He stressed that the greatest honour families can give their parents and grandparents is not expensive burial arrangements, but care, attention, respect, and support while they are still alive.
Father Imadonmwinyi recalled the significant role grandparents play in passing on the Christian faith, noting that many of them taught younger generations how to pray, attend Mass, and live according to Gospel values.
He urged Christians to learn from King Solomon to seek divine wisdom, from Christ to treasure God’s Kingdom above worldly possessions, and from the elderly to appreciate the enduring values of faith, sacrifice, and love.
The homily concluded with prayers for God’s blessings upon grandparents, families, and the entire Christian community, urging all believers to recognise Jesus Christ as the greatest treasure of life.
