Mary, Jonah and the people of Nineveh all showed a remarkable sense of focus in the readings today. They were able to zero in on something crucial, and with God’s grace they were able to carry it out.
The Lord offers a parable to illustrate what happens when we persistently turn away from God. Perhaps there have been times in our lives when we know what to do, but we haven’t done it; today offers us a fresh opportunity to draw near to Christ and – with his help – respond to the unique situations of our lives with in manner worthy of Jesus.
The 72 disciples return to Jesus, rejoicing at how their lives – empowered by Christ – have made a difference. Their “yes” to the Lord inspires us to do the same, offering our lives so that Christ can work through us in the world today.
It will not go well for the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum; Jesus preached in their midst and they have not responded. It’s a good reminder for us who have been raised with the Gospel…are we merely “cultural” Christians, or has the Good News touched our hearts and changed our lives?
Jesus sends out 72 disciples – in pairs, trusting on God’s providence and facing tough struggles – so that they can proclaim the Kingdom of God. Nehemiah and Ezra remind the people of Israel not to forget the Lord. The Church needs both: we come to know God so that we might invite others to know the Lord as well.
Jesus makes it clear in the Gospel today that to be a disciple is not for the faint of heart; rather, it will call us to place God above all else as we live in the world. It begs the question: what’s most important in your life?
James & John are offended by a Samaritan village and threaten to call down fire from Heaven. Jesus rebukes them, reminding us all that when we feel injured or offended to look to the Cross and see God’s solution to our human sin.
Ezekiel and Jesus point out the power of our actions in the spiritual life, and Paul reminds us that our actions are shaped when we take on the attitude of Jesus Christ. It’s practical advice that illustrates our ongoing need to focus on the Lord as we put our faith into practice.
Jesus announces that he will be handed over, and the disciples are afraid to ask him any questions about it. The fact is, the Lord embraces the Cross to free us from our sins…inspiring us not to be afraid but to draw near Him in faith.
The world can be a dangerous place where we encounter struggles that test us to the limit. Today we are reminded that we are not alone; in the order of creation God’s angels are among us, and some of them are appointed to help us in times of need. Among them the archangels are God’s “heavy hitters” who remind us to call for help when times are tough.