Reflecting on the Ephphetha ritual in the Rite of Baptism, which hearkens back to how Christ healed the deaf and enabled them to speak clearly (Mk 7:31-37), Fr. Eric speaks about the connection between this Gospel event and the corresponding prophecy by Isaiah (35:4-7) about the ushering in of a new era of joy coinciding with the coming of the Messiah.

Expounding upon the iconic Gospel story of the rich young man (Mt 19:16-30; Mk 10:17-31 and Lk 18:18-30), Fr. Eric explains further how the call to follow Christ with integrity and sincerity of heart is a necessary prequisite to finding the joy that aligns with the deepest desire of the human heart.

Fr. Eric speaks also about the Biblical practices of tithing (Gen 14:20-29, 28:20-22; Lev 27:30-34; Num 18:21, 26) and offering up the first fruits of one's labour (Deut 12:5-6; 2 Chron 31:4-5; Neh 10:35-37; Prov 3:9-10) as tangible examples of living our faith with integrity.

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