By Olivia Obijiaku
The Dean of Samaru Deanery of the Catholic Diocese of Zaria, Rev. Fr. Patrick Atama has asserted that placing ones material possessions above God is a form of idolatry. He took the stand during the Mass he celebrated at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Ahmadu Belo University, Zaria, Wednesday, July 8, 2026, anchoring on the first reading (Hosea 10:1-3,7-8,12), in which the Israelites deserted God and made more altars instead.
He intimated that though God never deserts His people, the people were fair weather worshippers of Yahweh, who are faithful to Him when life is moving on well for them, but forget Him when challenges arise. He juxtaposed them with some Christians, who seek His help in times of difficulties but forget Him when things are favourable for them.
“Success, prosperity and favour can be so dangerous if we are not careful with them.” The clergyman affirmed. “We have to be very careful when we are successful and start enjoying divine favour in life, because, at such moments, we tend to forget the source of our success, favour and prosperity. This is what we see in the first reading. God choose the people of Israel to be His people and He was their God. But they forget Him when there is a problem.”
“This is our life. When everything is moving smoothly for us, we tend to forget the source of our joy. But when things turn the other way we remember there is no help expect from God. Without shame we still ask Him for help. Do you remember the source of your success when you are succeeding? Do you remember to thank Him for making you prosperous? Sometimes, wealth tend to take us away from God and we behave as if it is by our power. But it is by the grace of God. If not for God, you will not be where you are today. When you idolize your possessions, you are worshipping another god. Do not let the things of this world to turn you against God.”
On the day’s Gospel in which Jesus sent His twelve disciples on mission, the priest said that though they were men of weaknesses, Jesus Christ called them. He tasked the faithful to begin their work of evangelization from their families, because, “Charity begins at home. Once the light shines in your house, people see it and are attracted to it, because they want to see the way. But if there is no light in your house, you will keep shouting and nobody will hear you.”
Fr. Atama implored them to let their lives to be the Gospel that the people read, “You must not take the Bible into the streets. Let your life be the reflection of the light of Christ. Let justice stand out wherever you find yourself. Speak the truth always. This is what Jesus is asking of you.”
