July 11, 2021

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Matthew 6:7-13

We have heard in our Gospel that Jesus sent his disciples two by two and they were sent to cast out demons, to preach repentance and to cure the sick. It is interesting to note the decision of Jesus sending His disciple by pairs. Why? Two by two because proclaiming the kingdom of God is not a solitary mission, it’s not a one man show, nor individual activity but a COMMUNITARIAN MISSION. It is not a one man show. We need a partner because we cannot do it alone.

Jesus reminded his disciples to take nothing on their journey: no bread, no bag, no money. Why? Because of these two significant reasons:

1. They have to depend on the generosity of the people who will welcome them. During the time of Jesus Jewish people are very hospitable. Jewish hospitality demanded that villagers should recieve and provide food and lodging for travellers.

2. Above all, they have to trust God to provide for all their needs. God will provide.

Message: What I am trying to drive out is this: In casting out demons, in preaching for repentance and in curing the sick we don’t need to bring bread, bag and money. Why? Because bread cannot drive out demons. Money cannot cure the sick. Temporal securities can’t move people to repentance. Only Jesus! If we bring Jesus, we can cure the sick. If we bring Jesus, people will gradually change ways. If we bring Jesus we can drive out demons. You know what, if others can feel and sense the presence of Jesus in us, even if we don’t asks, others will provide our needs. If others feel and sense the presence of Jesus, even if you don’t apply for job, others will hired you. If your husband/wife feel and sense Jesus in you, she/he will be more loving, kind and understanding towards you. Remember, if you always bring Jesus with you, blessings, favors and infinite graces will be poured unto you and to your family.

Therefore, continue to tell the story of Jesus. If they don’t listen, shake off the dust on your feet as a testimony against them. The gesture of shaking off dust means: after I offer Jesus to you and if you refuse to accept this offering; whatever bad things happened to you I don’t take any responsibility towards you. Refusing Jesus in your life is refusing the blessings.

Summary: Proclaim the Gospel, two by two. In doing so, travel light. And Continue testify in Jesus. We are missionaries not mercenaries.

Blessings

Fr. Jhack