Memorial of St. Paul Miki & Companions
In today’s gospel, Jesus sends the apostles out to spread the Good News. He instructs them to take little, but He sends them “two by two”. From the very beginning, Jesus teaches us that accompanying others on our faith journey is the best road to build the Kingdom of God.
When Jesus sends His followers out into the neighboring communities, He gives them very specific instructions on how they should proceed. They are allowed to take a walking stick and a pair of sandals, but no food, money or even a second tunic. They are to rely completely on the people in the villages and their hospitality. He sends them forth as a pair of believers, and He shares His authority with them, so they can heal and bring wholeness to those who receive them. Today’s gospel says that they preached repentance, and cured many people who were sick or possessed.
Jesus always leads with purpose. Through example, He shows us how we are called to live out our faith. Jesus does not go out on his own to share His Good News, but He gathers a group of followers—His apostles—to be a part of his mission. In the same way, when Jesus sends His apostles out to continue this work. He sends them “two by two”, since Jesus recognizes the power and advantage of community when doing Gods’ work.
Community is just as important today. Shared experiences bring us together and help us work towards a common goal. Similar to the apostles who are sent “two by two”, when we join together for the Kingdom, we are able to bring Christ and His power and healing to the world.
Our triune God is a God of communion. St. John Paul II reminds us that “Man becomes an image of God not so much in the moment of solitude as in the moment of communion.” The love and respect we share with others as we work in community becomes a light to others reflecting God’s love and grace. In a world that is filled with darkness and fear, the community of believers becomes God’s light to bring hope to the world.
Today spend time recognizing the many communities that our part of your daily living. Consider ways that you can work together with others to strengthen the bonds of faith and love, and then go forth together to bring healing and mercy to those in need.
—Marylynn Herchline