MISSION OF THE TWELVE
Ezra 9:5-9; Psalm – Tobit 13:2, 4, 6, 8; Luke 9:1-6
Jesus sends the Twelve on their first trip to preach in his name. They were tasked with deliverance, healing and preaching. How many of us are truly practicing what we were commissioned to do at our baptism? Let’s uphold our commitment to one another and to our vows to improve the world.
Again, Jesus said to them, ‘Take nothing for the journey: neither staff, nor haversack, nor bread, nor money; and let none of you take a spare tunic.’ The greatest distraction in the apostolic ministry today is materialism—love of riches. This message challenges us to return to the status quo.
As messengers, we are to intercede on behalf of the people. In the first reading, Ezra the priest, on behalf of the people, praises the Lord for his mercy and forgiveness. The Psalm reminds us that while God punishes us for our transgressions, he is still merciful. Beloved, let us listen to the message of God and turn to him for refuge and salvation.
The Church gives us the example of St. Vincent de Paul today. He became a great priest based on the service he rendered to the poor and destitute. He founded the Congregation of the Missions (the Vincentians) and the Daughters of Charity. He was completely detached and dedicated to service.
LET US PRAY
Father Lord, we pray for a new generation of Christians that can embrace the apostolic ministry beyond the shores of clericalism so that, whether a layman or a cleric, we may give expression to Christ at all times and in all places. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
