Fernando, R. (2024, July 14). Wisdom on the way: Cost of discipleship and providence of God. St. John's Catholic Church: 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time-July 14, 2024. https://container.parishesonline.com/bulletins/02/0977/20240714B.pdf
Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 85:9-10, 11-12, 13-14
Gospel, Mark 6:7-13
Reading 2, Ephesians 1:3-14
In today’s Gospel taken from Saint Mark, we witness Jesus commissioning the Twelve Apostles, sending them out in pairs to proclaim his message and perform acts of healing and deliverance. There are several profound lessons embedded within this narrative that resonate deeply with our lives today.
Firstly, we observe Jesus bestowing authority upon his disciples. By giving them power over unclean spirits, Jesus empowers them to confront the forces of darkness and bring about spiritual liberation. This highlights the transformative potential that lies within each of us when we align ourselves with the mission of Christ. We, too, are called to confront the evils of our time, whether they be societal injustices, personal struggles, or spiritual battles, with the authority and power bestowed upon us as followers of Jesus.
Secondly, Jesus instructs the disciples to travel lightly, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and dependence on God. They are to take only the bare essentials for their journey, relying on the hospitality of others for their sustenance. This serves as a reminder of the transient nature of material possessions and the primacy of spiritual wealth. In a world consumed by consumerism and excess, this call to simplicity challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and place our trust in God rather than material wealth.
Thirdly, Jesus advises his disciples on how to respond to rejection. He tells them that if a place does not welcome them or listen to their message, they are to shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against them. This underscores the inevitability of rejection and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. As followers of Christ, we are called to persevere in our mission, even when faced with opposition and rejection, trusting that God will ultimately vindicate our efforts.
Finally, we witness the profound impact of the disciples' ministry. They preach repentance, drive out demons, and heal the sick, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel message. This serves as a testament to the potency of faith in action and the tangible difference it can make in the lives of others.
As modern-day disciples, we are called to continue the Christ’s work of proclaiming the gospel, confronting evil, and bringing healing to a broken world. As we reflect on today’s Gospel, therefore, may we be inspired to follow in the footsteps of the Twelve Apostles, embracing Christ’s discipleship more ardently and serving the mission of the church with humility and dependence on God.
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