Today Jesus needs 72 people. Will I be ready for one, among them?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 3rd Week - Friday*

*Feast of Sts Thimothy & Titus*

*Gospel : Lk 10:1-9*

*First Reading : 2 Tim 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5*

*Today Jesus needs 72 people. Will I be ready for one, among them?*

*1) Jesus Appoints 72 Disciples*

The Gospel of the day has a beautiful narration about appointing 72 disciples, by Jesus for the mission 

Jesus appointed them to be sent before Him to prepare for the Mission 

They were sent two by two, and they prepared the people for the arrival of Jesus 

*2) They were sent to communicate the message of Peace*

Jesus clearly told them about what they are supposed to do in mission place

They had to communicate the message of Peace and about the arrival of the Kingdom of God

*3) No expenses are involved in communicating the message of Peace*

When Jesus sent his disciples he clearly told them, *Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way*

The above words of Jesus clearly tell us that the message of Peace is free of cost, which does not need any material resources to implement it 

*4) Today Jesus needs People*

The same Jesus who appointed 72 is in search of me and you to form  a new team, to be sent out for the mission 

He comes and asks your help and cooperation to build the Kingdom of God. What is your response? 

Will I be ready like Matthew who immediately left everything and followed Jesus or will I be like a rich man who went away with sadness, because he had plenty of wealth and money, which he didn't want to give up

So what is my response?  

*5) He is sending us before His arrival*

He sent His disciples before he went to a particular place

Today also, Jesus wants to send us before His arrival in certain houses, in the heart and mind of our brothers and sisters and in various situations. 

When Jesus sends us before His arrival we have more responsibility to communicate the message of peace and love 

We can't take this responsibility in a simpler and in a light manner

We need to be serious in our commitment. 

So, what is my response? 

Will I be ready for 1 among 72, with all the demands of the Gospel??

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*