“The seventy-two returned rejoicing.” – Luke 10:17
For the Sunday reading I am struck by the description of the return of the disciples. After having been sent out on mission by Jesus; they return rejoicing. A life of faith is viewed by many in the contemporary world as being listless, involving nothing but giving up the goods of the world, which means that from a contemporary perspective it surely cannot be joyful. The disciples turn this idea completely upside down. Jesus sends them out with no money, no sack, and no sandals to proclaim that the “kingdom of God is at hand” and to heal the sick. There is no doubt this would have been a difficult task but because of their trust in Christ and faithfulness to his instructions they have great success and experience a joy that can only be found in a relationship with Jesus.
The message for us is clear. If we want to live joyful lives, we too must go on mission. We must trust that God will provide us with the necessary talents, gifts, and financial support so that we can effectively proclaim that the “kingdom of God is at hand” to our family, friends, and members of our community. If we are faithful in this task, just like the disciples we too will return to Jesus rejoicing.
Viva Cristo Rey!
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