REFLECTIONS TODAY
Today we remember Sts. Timothy and Titus who labored with the Apostle Paul in planting the Gospel in Asia Minor and beyond. Their partnership in mission reflects the sending of the first apostles in pairs, presumably for mutual support. St. Paul shows in his letters how grateful he was for these companions who labored hard with him. Both were recognized to be “overseers” of the communities that they had founded. They provided guidance, instructions, admonitions, and encouragements to the communities that were still struggling with living out their newfound faith. Indeed, the building up of the Church cannot be the work of one or a few people alone. It needs the contribution and support of every member. Since each member is endowed with different gifts, the Church is assured of being provided with means for its growth and development. Nowadays, thankfully, we have very devoted and self-sacrificing lay partners and ministers who assist our bishops and priests in their pastoral ministries. Still, we need to encourage many more to actively participate in the works and ministries of our Christian communities. As in the movies, supporting characters have an important role to play. Do we have any participation in our parish life at present?
Gospel • Luke 10:1-9
The Lord Jesus appointed 72 disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. 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. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves payment. Do not move about from one house to another. 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.’”
Source: “365 Days with the Lord 2023,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; Fax 632-895-7328; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.