Seeing the crowds, the heart of Jesus was moved with pity for their many needs, and he responds by empowering his disciples to go forth in his name. Their example reveals the opportunity we have every day to serve our struggling brothers and sisters around us.
Jesus gives power and authority to the disciples to carry on his saving work as they place their trust in him. Following their example we, too, have an opportunity to carry on the mission of the Lord as we offer our lives guided by God’s grace.
Jesus empowers 72 disciples to go in pairs and continue his mission of preaching, healing and driving out evil. Facing opposition and hostility they return rejoicing at the power of God at work in their lives. May we be inspired to follow their example!
The Acts of the Apostles recounts both the persecution and joy that the early Church experienced, showcasing how St. Philip carried on the mission of Jesus through his actions. As we face our challenges today, may we allow the grace of the Lord to give us the strength and wisdom we need.
As Jesus sends out the seventy-two disciples, he charges them with specific tasks of preaching, healing and proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Like those first disciples, we participate in the ministry of Christ every time we use our gifts and talents for the glory of God.
Jesus invites the disciples to rest after they return from their mission. It’s a good reminder that there is always more work than we can possibly accomplish; our task is to make sure that we balance our lives with the rest we need so that we can keep serving the Lord.
Just as Jesus sends the Twelve Apostles with his authority, so also the Lord sends us – empowered with his grace – to continue his mission in the world. We do it together; we trust in God; we are attentive to each opportunity; we let Christ work through us!
Jesus calls by name the Twelve Apostles from the disciples who followed him. Chosen by him, they have work to do…reminding us today that the Lord continues to call people to carry on the Lord’s saving work through the mission of the Church.
Having offered his personal example, the Lord now extends his authority to the Twelve Apostles so that they can continue his ministry. He calls them by name…just as he calls each one of us today.
