Amos 7:12-15; Ephes. 1:3-14; Mk. 6:7-13
During today's First Reading from the Book of Amos we heard that the Lord told Amos, "Go, prophesy to my people Israel." As you heard from this reading and previous biblical readings, in those days, "in many and various ways God spoke of old to our father by the prophets." Each prophet received a distinct commission according to his calling.
The Prophets remained faithful to their mission but many a time they were not welcomed. As we heard from the First Reading, the Word of God through Amos was not welcomed. Amos was told to go somewhere else to prophesy.
Today’s Gospel tells us how Jesus sent out his disciples with a mission. "Jesus called the twelve and began to send them out two
by two and gave them authority over the unclean spirits."My brothers and sisters, we all have a calling to answer. A priest is called to preach the Word and to administer the Sacraments. Some have been called to the religious life. And so it is different for those who have been called to the Sacrament of Marriage and those who have been called to remain single. While our callings differ greatly in the visible world, the spiritual calling that we must answer in the invisible world is identical to all of us. As St. Paul states at the beginning of the Letter to the Romans, it is through our human spirit that we serve God by announcing the gospel of His Son. [Rom. 1:9]
God’s calling continued throughout history. God called Abraham to leave his country, his people, and his father's household and go to the land God would show him (Genesis 12:1-3). Abraham obeyed God's call without knowing his destination, demonstrating his faith and trust in God's promises.
God called Moses from the burning bush, commissioning him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:1-10). Despite initial hesitation and doubts about his own abilities, Moses ultimately obeyed God's call, leading the Israelites to freedom.
As a young boy serving in the temple, Samuel heard God's voice calling him at night. Under the guidance of Eli, he responded, "Speak, for your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:1-10). Samuel grew to become a faithful prophet and judge over Israel, delivering God's messages and leading the nation.
In a vision, Isaiah saw the Lord seated on a throne and heard the voice of the Lord asking, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" Isaiah responded, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:1-8). Isaiah became one of the major prophets, delivering God's messages of both judgment and hope to Israel.
From the Old Testament the call of God continued through Jesus. He called all His disciples. And the disciples were given great responsibility. Even after the life of Jesus on Earth He continues to call people to be entrusted with a mission.
St. Paul experienced an extraordinary call on the road to Damascus. A blinding light from heaven flashed around him, and he heard the voice of Jesus asking, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" (Acts 9:1-9). Saul's conversion was immediate. He became one of the most influential apostles, spreading the Gospel across the Roman Empire and writing many of the New Testament epistles.
While praying in the dilapidated church of San Damiano, Francis heard Christ speaking to him from the crucifix, saying, "Francis, repair my church, which is falling into ruin." Taking this command literally, Francis began to rebuild the church. Eventually, he realized his mission was to renew the entire Church through a life of poverty, humility, and devotion to God, founding the Franciscan Order in 1209.
After being wounded in battle, Ignatius experienced a profound spiritual awakening during his convalescence. Reading about the lives of saints and the life of Christ, he felt a deep call to serve God. Ignatius founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), emphasizing education, missionary work, and the spiritual exercises he developed. The Jesuits became a major force in the Counter-Reformation and in the spread of Christianity around the world.
Throughout history, both in biblical times and the contemporary world, God's call has led individuals to undertake extraordinary missions. These examples remind us that God's call can come in various forms and often requires great faith, courage, and sacrifice.
In the Gospels we read: "Jesus called the twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over the unclean spirits."
We are reminded that the Christian journey is not meant to be walked alone. We need each other, to encourage, to hold accountable, and to strengthen our faith. The story of David and Jonathan is a great example for this. Despite the danger it posed to his own life, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, formed a deep and loyal friendship with David. Jonathan supported and protected David, even when his father sought David's life. Their friendship is a testament to the power of selfless love and mutual encouragement. Jonathan's support helped David survive during his years of persecution, eventually leading to David becoming king and fulfilling God's promise to Israel.
Christian journey is enriched and strengthened through companionship. Whether through profound historical friendships, modern-day communities, or everyday relationships, we see the beauty and power of walking together in faith. Let us embrace this call to mutual support, accountability, and encouragement, knowing that we reflect Christ's love most profoundly when we journey together.
Then Jesus gives clear Instructions for the Journey.
"He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics."
Jesus' instructions are strikingly simple and austere. They are to take nothing but a staff, wear sandals, and not take an extra tunic. Why such minimalism? Jesus is teaching His disciples to rely wholly on God for their provision. In a world that values self-sufficiency and material security, Jesus calls His followers to a radical dependence on God.
This passage challenges us to reflect on our own lives. Are we willing to trust God completely, even when it means letting go of our material comforts and securities? Jesus is inviting us to experience the freedom that comes from trusting God for our needs.
Jesus also reminded them to observe the Principle of Hospitality.
"Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place."
Jesus instructs His disciples to stay in the first home that welcomes them. This practice underscores the value of gratitude and contentment. It also establishes a bond with the host, allowing the message of the Gospel to take root in that household.
In our mission today we are called to build genuine relationships. We are to be present, to listen, and to invest in the lives of those we encounter, rather than seeking better opportunities or more comfortable accommodations.
Jesus also reminds them to be prepared for rejection. This action of shaking off the dust is symbolic. It signifies a disassociation from those who reject the message. It is a sobering reminder that not everyone will accept the message, and that we must not be discouraged or burdened by rejection.
As modern disciples, we too must be prepared for rejection. Our task is to faithfully proclaim the message, leaving the response to God. We are called to be faithful witnesses, trusting that God will work in the hearts of those who hear.
We are sent out, not alone but in the fellowship of believers. We are called to trust in God's provision, to build genuine relationships, to be resilient in the face of rejection, and to step out in obedience, knowing that God will work through us.
Jesus instructed His disciples to move on from rejection without harboring resentment. This teaches us to respond with grace and continue our mission despite setbacks. To Practice forgiveness and Cultivate resilience and perseverance not being discouraged by rejection or failure.
One of the most profound responsibilities we have as followers of Jesus is to manifest His love and compassion in the world. In a world filled with pain, division, and suffering, our call to embody Christ's love is more crucial than ever. Small, intentional acts of kindness can make a big difference. Pay for someone's meal, offer a helping hand to a neighbor, or simply share a smile and a kind word.
When we manifest love and compassion, we have the power to transform lives. Acts of kindness can restore hope, advocacy can bring about justice, and genuine relationships can heal broken hearts.
Satish