Reflections by Fr Mathibela Sebothoma

  Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent (Homily/Sermon) A New Beginning in Christ Have you ever wished you could press a “restart” button on life? Sometimes, when things go wrong, we long for a fresh start. Today’s readings remind us that God is always offering us a new beginning. A child once asked his priest, “Father, if God makes everything new, why doesn’t He make my homework disappear?” The priest smiled and said, “Because He wants to make you new, not just your homework!” Isaiah speaks of a future where God creates “new heavens and a new earth.” It’s not just about changing the world, but about transforming us from within. God’s renewal is not just an external event but an internal conversion of the heart. In the Gospel, a royal official approaches Jesus, desperate for his son to be healed. Jesus tells him, “Go, your son will live.” The official believed and went home, only to find that his son was healed at the very moment Jesus spoke. His faith led to a miracle. The...

  Catholic Women's League Archdiocese of Pretoria Visits Sizanani Children's Home Inspiring Act of Faith and Charity Sizanani, 29 March 2025 – In an inspiring act of faith and charity, members of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) from the Archdiocese of Pretoria visited Sizanani Children’s Home to celebrate Holy Mass and donate much-needed essentials to the residents. The Home, which cares for children and adults living with physical and mental disabilities, has been adopted as a diocese-wide charity initiative by the CWL. CWL’s Commitment to Sizanani Home According to Ms. Lemao Dorah Modise, Deputy President of the Catholic Women’s League in the Archdiocese of Pretoria, “The CWL in the Archdiocese of Pretoria adopted the Sizanani Children’s Home as its diocese-wide charity initiative, over and above the many other charities supported by different CWL branches.” The visiting members were from Maria Regina Catholic Church (Lyttelton), St. John Fisher Catholic Church (Lynnwood),...

  Short Homily – Fourth Sunday of Lent Theme: The Father’s Embrace – A Call to Reconciliation Today, the Church celebrates the Fourth Sunday of Lent, also known as Laetare Sunday—a day of joy as we journey towards Easter. The Gospel presents us with one of the most beloved parables: the Prodigal Son. It is a story of mercy, forgiveness, and the boundless love of God. A young boy once prayed, "Lord, I am like the Prodigal Son, but my problem is I keep running away before I even say sorry!" Many of us can relate—we sometimes drift from God but struggle to return. Yet, our loving Father is always waiting for us! The readings today reveal a powerful journey of renewal: Joshua 5:9a, 10-12 reminds us of the Israelites finally eating the fruits of the Promised Land, leaving behind the manna of the desert. This signifies a transition from suffering to abundance, from slavery to freedom. 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 calls us to become new creations in Christ. Paul tells us that t...

  Lesetja Kganyago Appointed Chancellor of Stellenbosch University: A Beacon of Catholic Virtue By Father Mathibela Sebothoma On January 24, 2025, Lesetja Kganyago, Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, was unanimously elected as the 16th Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU). For the Catholic faithful, this appointment is not just a milestone in academic leadership but a moment of pride—a testament to how faith, rooted in the teachings of Christ, can flourish in the highest echelons of public service. A Shepherd’s Blessing from the Church Auxiliary Bishop Masilo John Selemela of the Archdiocese of Pretoria offered a heartfelt message of congratulations, reflecting the Church’s joy in Kganyago’s achievement: "I extend my warmest congratulations to you, Governor Kganyago, on your election as Chancellor of Stellenbosch University. This esteemed role is a recognition of your unwavering leadership, deeply anchored in Christian virtue and a commitment to the common good. You...

  Friday of the Third Week of Lent (Homily/Sermon) Loving God with All Your Heart Have you ever tried to use a cellphone with a low battery? It slows down, some functions stop working, and eventually, it switches off. The same happens to our spiritual lives when we don’t stay connected to God. Today’s readings remind us that true strength comes from loving and listening to God with our whole hearts. A young man once asked his grandmother, “Gogo, how did you stay married to Mkhulu for 50 years?” She smiled and said, “We made a deal—whoever got angry first had to walk outside and pray. That’s why, after all these years, I know my neighbourhood very well!” Just like this grandmother, today’s readings invite us to listen, love, and stay connected to God. Hosea 14:2-10 reminds us to return to the Lord. God is not waiting to punish us—He is like a loving parent, always ready to embrace us. Psalm 81 echoes this message: If we listen to God’s voice and follow His ways, He will pro...

  In John 9:1-41 Jesus lifted someone's life by healing his blindness and restoring his sight; the man could no longer be a street beggar and poor for the rest of his life because Jesus changed also his life's circumstances. But the Pharisees instead of singing alleluia for a single act of kindness, criticized Jesus and started plotting his downfall and death. Today I will lift at least one person's life high, make them see their potential and restore their dignity. Then I would have done my share in making this world a better place. So help me God

  It doesn’t matter how many people say no to you. If God says yes, that’s all that matters.

  27 March 2025 Thursday of the Third Week of Lent (Homily/sermon) Listen to God’s Voice – Do Not Harden Your Heart Lent is a time to pause and listen to God’s voice . But the question is: Are we listening? Or do we, like the Israelites, harden our hearts and follow our own ways? Today, we are reminded that true faith is not just hearing God’s Word—it is obeying it . A man was praying: "Lord, speak to me!" Just then, his phone rang, and he ignored it. Then someone knocked on the door, but he didn’t answer. Later, he complained, "God, why don’t You speak to me?" Sometimes, God is speaking, but we refuse to listen . He speaks through His Word, through others, and through life’s experiences. Jeremiah 7:23-28 – God pleads with Israel: "Obey my voice, and I will be your God." But instead of listening, they turned away and followed their own stubborn desires. This passage challenges us: Are we truly listening to God, or are we choosing our own path? ...

  26 March 2025: Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent (Homily/Sermon) Living God’s Law with Love and Faithfulness God’s commandments are not burdens but gifts. They are meant to guide us, protect us, and lead us to a life of true joy and peace . Today’s readings remind us that faithfulness to God’s Word brings blessings, not only for us but for future generations . A man once said, "Father, I follow the Ten Commandments… I just adjust them to fit my lifestyle!" Many of us do the same—we pick and choose which of God’s laws to follow. But today, Jesus reminds us that God’s Word is not negotiable . Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9 – Moses urges the Israelites to obey God’s statutes so they may live wisely and be a light to other nations. He reminds them to teach these laws to their children so that faith continues across generations. Psalm 147 – A song of gratitude, celebrating how God strengthens and blesses those who remain faithful to Him . Matthew 5:17-19 – Jesus clarifies ...

  Trump Appoints L. Brent Bozell III as U.S. Ambassador-Designate to South Africa Amid Strained Bilateral Ties By Father Mathibela Sebothoma, Pretoria March 25, 2025 (Photo by Gage Skidmore) U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed L. Brent Bozell III as the ambassador-designate to South Africa, a decision that has drawn attention from both political and religious circles. The appointment, first reported by The New York Times , is pending confirmation by the U.S. Senate. Additionally, as per diplomatic protocol, President Cyril Ramaphosa must accept Bozell’s credentials before he can officially assume the role. The appointment comes at a delicate time in U.S.-South Africa relations, which have been marked by diplomatic tensions over foreign policy differences and international alignments. Bozell, a conservative media activist and commentator, will face the task of navigating these challenges while strengthening ties between Washington and Pretoria. A Conservative Stalwart with Dee...

  Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord (Homily/Sermon) "Let it be done to me according to Your Word" A young man once prayed, “Lord, show me Your will… but please make sure it aligns with my plans.” Many of us are like that—we want God's guidance, but only if it fits into our schedule! Today, we celebrate Mary, who surrendered completely to God’s will, even when it disrupted her plans. The Annunciation is one of the most profound moments in salvation history. The angel Gabriel appears to Mary with an overwhelming message—she will conceive the Son of God. At first, she is troubled, but after questioning, she responds with faith: "Let it be done to me according to Your word." Mary’s “yes” is not passive submission but an act of courageous trust. She doesn't fully understand how things will unfold, but she believes in the One who calls her. Unlike Ahaz in Isaiah, who refuses to trust God’s sign, Mary embraces it wholeheartedly. The letter to the Hebrews re...

  Monday of the Third Week of Lent 24 March 2025 The Healing Power of Humility and Faith They say, “A big ego is like a big hat – it looks impressive but covers an empty head!” Naaman, the mighty warrior, almost missed his healing because of pride. How often do we do the same? Today’s readings remind us that God's ways are often simple, but they require faith and humility. A man once prayed, “Lord, give me patience… and hurry up!” We often want God to work in dramatic ways, but sometimes, His miracles come in small, unexpected ways—like washing seven times in the Jordan River. Naaman, a powerful commander, suffered from leprosy. He expected a grand miracle from Elisha, but instead, the prophet told him to do something ordinary—bathe in the Jordan. At first, Naaman was furious! He wanted something spectacular, not something so simple. But when he finally humbled himself and obeyed, he was healed. Jesus, in the Gospel, speaks about how God’s mercy extends beyond Israel, using Naa...

  Prayer for a New Day  Heavenly Father, As a new day dawns, I thank You for the gift of life and the second chances You give me. Like the fig tree in the Gospel, I know there are areas in my life that need growth and renewal. Help me to bear good fruit today—fruit of kindness, patience, and love. Open my heart to Your voice, just as You called Moses through the burning bush. May I recognise Your presence in the ordinary moments of my day and respond with faith and courage. Strengthen me to live with purpose, to act with compassion, and to share Your mercy with those I meet. Lord, when I feel discouraged, remind me that You never give up on me. As I step into this day, may I walk in hope, trusting in Your grace and unfailing love. Amen.

 Homily/Sermon: Third Sunday of Lent  A Second Chance – God’s Call to Repentance There’s a story of an old farmer who planted a fig tree in his yard. Year after year, he checked for fruit, but there was none. His frustration grew until one day, he picked up his axe, ready to chop it down. Just then, his grandson ran up and said, "Grandpa, maybe it needs a little more love and patience." The old man sighed, put down the axe, and gave it one more year. Today's Gospel is about second chances—God’s mercy and patience with us, just like that fig tree. First Reading (Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15): Moses encounters the burning bush, where God reveals His name: “I AM WHO I AM.” This is a powerful moment of calling and transformation—God does not abandon His people but steps in to save them. Psalm (Psalm 103): The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in kindness. This reminds us that despite our failures, God gives us another chance. Second Reading (1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12): S...

  10 Facts About Happy People : They Practice Gratitude – Happy people focus on what they have rather than what they lack. They appreciate the small and big blessings in life. They Nurture Relationships – Strong connections with family, friends, and loved ones contribute to their happiness. They invest in meaningful relationships. They Live in the Present – Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, they embrace the present moment and find joy in it. They Take Care of Their Health – Regular exercise, good nutrition, and enough sleep contribute to their overall well-being and mood. They Focus on Solutions, Not Problems – Challenges don’t break them; they seek ways to overcome difficulties rather than just complaining. They Give More Than They Take – Whether through kindness, charity, or simple gestures, happy people find joy in giving and making others smile. They Embrace Positivity – They choose optimism and surround themselves with up...

 Morning Prayer: Embracing God’s Mercy

  The Lord is Kind and Merciful Homily/Sermon: Saturday of the Second Week of Lent There is a joke that says: "A child told his father, ‘Dad, I am sorry for making a mess.’ The father replied, ‘I forgive you, son.’ Then the child asked, ‘So… no punishment?’ The father smiled and said, ‘No, because I love you.’ The child ran off, happy—until he stepped into the mess he had just made!" This is how God's mercy works. He forgives us, but sometimes we still face the consequences of our choices. However, His love never fails. Today’s readings remind us of God’s unfailing kindness, especially in the story of the Prodigal Son. The first reading from Micah highlights God's mercy, describing how He does not stay angry forever but delights in showing compassion. The Psalm echoes this, celebrating a God who "does not treat us according to our sins" but is kind and forgiving. Then, in the Gospel, Jesus tells the famous parable of the Prodigal Son—a story of a young ...

 ( Fatima Prayer​​) O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell, and lead all souls to heaven, especially those most in need of Thy mercy.

 Morning Prayer – A New Day of Hope and Justice

  Friday of the Second Week of Lent / Human Rights Day (21 March) From Betrayal to Justice – God’s Plan Prevails There’s a story that says, "Be careful who you share your dreams with—some people might sell you out!" That’s exactly what happened to Joseph in today’s reading. His own brothers, instead of celebrating his dreams, plotted against him. But here’s the good news: no human betrayal can stop God’s plan! Today, as South Africa marks Human Rights Day , we reflect on how betrayal, injustice, and rejection have shaped history—but also how hope, resilience, and faith have brought change. Joseph’s story (Genesis 37) is painful but powerful. Sold into slavery by his own family, he later became a leader in Egypt and saved many lives—including those who betrayed him. What they meant for evil, God turned into good. In Matthew’s Gospel (Matthew 21:33-43), Jesus tells a parable of tenants who reject the landowner’s messengers and even his son . The religious leaders knew...