Daily Reflection for Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Tuesday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/101822.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: 2 Timothy 4:10-17b
Responsorial: Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18
Gospel: Luke 10:1-9
Our reflection on Tuesday’s readings:
The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Luke 10:2
On this magnificent fall day bathed in sunlight and surrounded by neighbors’ seasonal displays of pumpkins and gourds, it’s easy to appreciate Jesus’ harvest imagery in today’s gospel. Nature itself proclaims God’s bounty. In the same way, Jesus implies that God has been cultivating souls and now the time is ripe for Jesus’ disciples to gather the harvest.
My first reaction is to worry if I am equipped for such important work. I’m encouraged that in today’s gospel Jesus actually de-equips the disciples: Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals… (Luke 10:4).
Proclaiming the Kingdom of God is not dependent on our personal skills, training, or other “stuff.” Just we ourselves and not our “belongings” are both messenger and message. Like the disciples, we are totally reliant on the openness of those we meet and on the power of God.
Luckily, Jesus’ gospel instructions today are simple. No hard sell, no arguing. Simply offer a peaceful spirit, be a healing presence, and remain faithful. Notice that Jesus doesn’t even hold the disciples accountable for success. That is because success doesn’t depend on their meager efforts. It is only the power of God that can change hearts.
Discipleship is first and foremost about radiating and manifesting the love of God as was first shown to us in Jesus. Jesus’ presence was a healing and reconciling one and so must ours be. In us and through us, God continues to walk the face of the earth. We are the Body of Christ today.
Jesus’ gospel words have an urgent tone. In our present world, there is no less an urgent need for messages of peace and healing. Think about your own family, your workplace, your parish, your country, your world.
Today in your life, where could you be the peaceful, healing presence of God?
Wishing you God’s blessings,
Jean Galanti