A Reflection from the Fuel Daily Readings App for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Click here to read the reading.
At the end of every Mass, I am challenged by the invitation from the celebrant. "Go and proclaim the Word of the Lord!" I respond with everyone else; 'thanks be to God' but on reflection, how often do I actively proclaim the Word straight from the Gospel? Sure, I live a Catholic life and love speaking about the faith when I can, but it's hard to specifically proclaim the Word!
The Gospel today narrates the commission of the Disciples as they are given specific direction by Jesus in how they were to minister and being given the authority to cast out demons, healing the sick and anointing. They are directed to go out in two's and taking nothing but a walking stick with them, with the added luxury of being able to wear sandals. In our stuff filled lives today, it shows that it isn't as complicated as it sometimes feels to evangelise.
The poignant part of this Gospel for me is the middle passage, with the direction about staying in the same house until you leave town, and what to do if a place refuses to welcome them; to shake off the dust of the town from them and leave, "to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate." It's jarring to read, but really sinks home the importance of receiving the message of Christ in our lives, and how much more important it is for us to share this message with others.
Today, I'm challenging myself to be more intentional in speaking the truth of the Gospel to those around me, and I encourage you to join me. Next time the Priest, in the place of Jesus, commissions us personally to go out and to proclaim the Gospel, let us be reminded and refreshed in our roles as disciples.
+ Jesus, send me out today to proclaim Your name. In You, there is such goodness that I need to share. Show me the ways to share Your word with those around me. Amen.