By Thomas Lima csc –
Readings: Is 66: 10-14; Gal 6: 14-18; Lk 10: 1-12, 27-30
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the theme messenger of the kingdom.
The first reading from the book of Isaiah promises that God will extend peace like a river and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream. This impression is of abundance beyond our ability that God is going to us with. The abundance seems to have no beginning and no end. It is that kind of abundance the Lord is promising to Jerusalem and to us.
The Gospel talks about the sending of seventy-two disciples by Jesus ahead of him. Jesus teaches us about vocation and mission. He reminds of us the impending opposition and persecution in this vocational journey. We should not be discouraged when people do not listen to us.
As Pope Francis reminds us, every Christian is a missionary to the extent that he or she has encountered the love of God in Jesus Christ. Despite the difficulties, are we ready to accept the responsibility of carrying out his mission and ministry? Today Jesus is asking each one of us not only to believe in him but also to share the good news with all on earth.
St. Thomas, the Apostle of India whose feast we celebrate today, is the best example for us in following the Divine Master and remaining faithful to the end. What an awesome responsibility and privilege the Lord has bestowed on me to carry, together with others, the message of God’s love and mercy to the world! May St. Thomas inspire us in living out this vocation.