Jesus Asks for Our Effort

by David Lins  |  07/07/2019  |  (Being) Catholic Matters

This Sunday’s Gospel is one of many instances where Jesus encourages his followers to go into the world and preach his message without worrying about the results.

“Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves… Into whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace to this household.' If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you... Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, 'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.' Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, 'The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you.'

We should find great freedom in Christ’s message. In direct opposition to the famous Yoda quote (“Do or do not. There is no try.”), Jesus simply asks for our effort. He will deal with the aftermath. This might be because He understands, despite any effort we put forth, each individual’s free will might get in the way. Or because there are very real differences between saving a soul and saving a galaxy George Lucas invented.

You may have already suffered consequences for the faith. Have you been persecuted? Has someone removed themselves from your life? Have you lost business? Have family members distanced themselves? Do you feel alone?

I understand the lingering weight of grief, but try and allow God to carry it. He is big enough to take it.

As for us? We just need to keep carrying Him to all we meet.

Questions? Comments? Email David at dlins@oloj.org.

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