By Richardson P csc –
Readings: Prov 30:5-9; Lk 9:1-6
“Every word of God is unalloyed, a shield to those who take refuge in him” (Prov 30: 5). The readings invite me to proclaim God’s life-giving words to his people and witness the values of Christ through deeds.
In today’s gospel, Jesus instructs his disciples to proclaim the kingdom of God to the people who are hungry and thirsty for his word. The disciples are charged to give full attention to the proclamation and not get diverted by lesser things in life. They are not expected to receive special privileges or reward but to be free from greed and preoccupation with possessions.
Through this passage, Jesus reminds me that the purpose of my call and vocation to this way of life is to proclaim his word and give Christ to the listeners. Jesus also assures me that by giving priority to his words and allowing them to work in me at this stage of formation will help me to serve him better and enable me to radiate the joy of the gospel in all the circumstances of life. The expression of David in the responsorial psalm, “your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps 119:105) promises me that the word of God lives in our midst as an inspirational tool to guide and lead my life in his ways. Listening to God’s voice helps me to surrender myself totally to his will and supports me to live according to his words.