Thursday, January 5th, 2012

Gospel of Matthew, chapter 10:40

There was a common saying among the Hebrews that ‘the messenger of a man is as himself.’ In today’s scripture, Jesus highlights the special bonds of intimacy and mission that exist between Himself and His followers; and between His followers and the Father, who sent Him.

The followers of Jesus are called to spread the good news of the Gospel in many different ways: by their words; by their actions and example; and by the kind of careers or jobs they hold in society. Whatever we do or say, as Christians, needs to exude the spirit of Christ. The mission of Christ is not to condemn the world, but to save it; and He entrusts this awesome task of saving the world to His faithful followers who endeavor to live by His spirit. It is for this reason that the Lord says that “whoever accepts you also accepts Me, and whoever accepts Me also accepts the One who sent Me.” We become the extension of Christ on earth; like living branches united to the vine (John 15:5) we are called to bring His good news to others.

It is good to know that we are not alone; that we have a powerful friend and ally in the Lord if we do His will. Rejection is not something we should be concerned about for, after all, the Lord was rejected by many, and betrayed by some of His closest followers. Whenever anyone rejects you for acting in the name of Christ, they reject Christ, and the Father who sent Him. Jesus says we should be careful about casting the pearls of the Gospel to undeserving people because they might destroy the good news and bring you down with them. (Matthew 7:6) He also says if we are not welcomed somewhere or at some time because of our beliefs, we should shake the dust from our feet and move on (Matthew 10:14). Most people only hear what they want to hear, so don’t be upset if they don’t want to hear the good news.

Our unity in Christ, is more important than the passing familiarity of fair-weather, and disinterested acquaintances.

Let us put our trust in Him who stands by our side and will never abandon us.

Fr. Hugh Duffy