Gospel Delights!

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Neh 8:1-4, 5-6, 7-12; Lk 10:1-12

There are at least five points for our reflection on today’s gospel. 

1.Jesus sends ‘seventy-two other disciples’ for the mission. Jesus acknowledges the scenario of ‘abundant harvest and fewer laborers’ and responds to it creatively. By adding 72 more disciples to the mission, Jesus lets us see his readiness to expand the band if need be without restricting it to the chosen twelve. ‘Tough times call for tough measures.’ Jesus pioneers the mission model!

2. Jesus encourages the idea of team ministry. The justification for it comes in the face of the lurking challenges in carrying out God’s mission. Jesus is aware of the fact that he is sending them like ‘lambs among wolves.’  It is ‘not the best individuals’ but the ‘best team’ that wins the game. Jesus recognizes the truth and applies it to the Kingdom mission. 

3. When Jesus sends out the disciples for the proclamation of the Kingdom, he expects them to respect the value of individual freedom. It is in this context that he talks of someone accepting it or rejecting it. The Kingdom of God is not thrust upon the recipients. The decision to accept it is born out of voluntary free will, as a distinct mark of complete individual freedom. Jesus is aware that the ability to be ‘lambs among wolves’ is possible only for those people who can exercise the agential responsibility to opt for the Kingdom message with all that it entails. 

4. Jesus also defines how they must ‘go’ for the ministry. He wants them not to rely on material possessions. If it is the mission of God, God will provide. He wants them to have trust in the Divine Providence. Also, by asking them not to greet people along the way, Jesus signifies the urgency of the mission. Not being distracted by material needs and pleasantries, the disciples are called to stay focused on proclaiming the Good News. 

5. The disciples sent for mission carry a single mandate: ‘To make the Good Lord known and loved.’ Whatever impedes this should be carefully avoided, and whatever aids this should be diligently followed. After all, the Kingdom of God that is at hand heralds peace, joy, and love. 

Fr. Dhinakaran Savariyar