The Need for Exhortation

Fr. Williams Onyilo, CSSp.

Exhortation means to encourage or to spur someone on to do better, especially when they are struggling. As human beings, we constantly need encouragement because life can be difficult at times, particularly when we face health challenges, trauma, the loss of loved ones, failure in certain areas, or moments of defeat and fear. In such situations, encouragement becomes not just helpful, but necessary.

Moreover, in many parts of the world today, especially in developing countries, life can appear overwhelming. Poor governance, inadequate healthcare, weak educational systems, and lack of basic social amenities often lead to deep discouragement among the people. In such contexts, exhortation becomes not only relevant but even therapeutic.

In Nigeria today, there are troubling reports of violence against Christians in some regions. Many people feel that the response of authorities has been insufficient, and some religious leaders appear silent. As a result, many have grown disillusioned with both political and religious leadership. Yet, they remain where they are, often with no alternative. The recent case of John Arum, a University of Jos scholar who was kidnapped, reflects the painful reality many Nigerians face.

In moments like these, what people need is simple yet profound: exhortation—encouragement that strengthens the heart and renews hope.

In the first reading, St. Peter speaks words that remain powerful today:
“Cast all your anxieties on Him, for He cares about you. Be sober and vigilant, because your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are undergoing the same sufferings. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace… will restore, support, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Peter 5:7–10).

As a catechism teacher, I have come to appreciate the deep need for exhortation in a very personal way. At first, I was frustrated with some of the catechumens who seemed not to be performing well. But when I took time to understand their backgrounds, my perspective changed. Some come from broken homes, some are orphaned, and others must work after school just to survive. Some come to class hungry, having had nothing to eat, while others walk long distances. There are even those whose parents do not support their participation in catechism.

Since then, my approach has changed. I now focus more on encouraging them. I recognize and affirm their sincere efforts, even when their performance is limited. On one occasion, I had to pause an examination to give food to a catechumen who was too weak from hunger to concentrate. I thought to myself, “If I let this boy leave in this condition, he might collapse on his way home.”

Unfortunately, this is the reality many people live with daily. And so, the call to exhortation is a call to compassion, to understanding, and to active support.

As we celebrate the feast of St. Mark, who faithfully proclaimed the Gospel, may we too become instruments of encouragement to those around us. Let us look carefully and compassionately at our families, our communities, and our workplaces, and ask: Who needs encouragement today?

The world is becoming more challenging each day. Let us not add to the burdens of others, but rather lighten them through our words, our actions, and our presence.

May God bless us all. Amen.