Walking in Jesus' Footsteps: The Call to Mission and Simplicity

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time: July 14, 2024

Readings: Amos 7:12–15; Psalms 85:9–14; Ephesians 1:3–14; Mark 6:7–13

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/ngOUsXfVFD4

What does it mean to be a Christian today? Perhaps each one has their own answer. A general response might be to be an authentic disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ, following in His footsteps. This means not only walking in His shadows in word and deed but also continuing the mission He entrusted to His disciples two thousand years ago. Now it is our turn to continue Jesus’ mission. This Sunday's liturgical readings, especially the Gospel, remind us that our job as followers of Jesus is to continue His work, particularly in bringing reconciliation and peace to the world.

1. The Call to Mission with a definite authority

In Mark 6:7–13, Jesus calls the twelve disciples and sends them out two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits. The disciples are not sent out alone but in pairs, emphasizing the importance of companionship and support in ministry. The mission of Jesus is not done alone but through and with the community. This teaches us that our spiritual journey is not meant to be solitary; we are called to walk together, supporting and encouraging one another. The Christian religion is not about an individual but a community. We are not meant to be independent – we are made for relationship.

Jesus grants his disciples authority over unclean spirits. This authority is not of their own but given by Jesus, indicating that true spiritual power comes from God. It is a stark reminder for us of our dependence on divine grace and the importance of humility in our spiritual work. Their mission involves both calling people to a change of heart and bringing tangible healing and liberation.

2. The mission of Jesus - of  Simplicity and Trust

Jesus instructs the disciples to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts, but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. Even though it may sound naive and simplistic, Jesus invites us to embrace a radical trust in God's provision and a life of simplicity. The disciples are to rely not on material possessions but on God's care and the hospitality of others. What should move the disciples is not prosperity and plenty but simplicity and trustworthiness. In the words of St Oscar Romero, we ought to “Aspire not to have more, but to be more.” We should be known by what we do rather than what we possess.

The demands of Jesus to his disciples are not without hard work. He makes the disciples work tirelessly. He is not satisfied with the minimum. Jesus tells the disciples to stay in the house where they are welcomed until they leave the town. If any place will not welcome them or listen to them, they are to leave and shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against them. This instruction teaches us about receptivity to God's message and the reality of rejection.

3.  Mission involves Inheritance in Christ 

Paul in his letter to Ephesians 1:3–14 emphasizes that we were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before Him in love. This emphasizes the depth of God’s love and the intentionality of His plan for us. For in Christ, we have obtained an inheritance. This inheritance signifies the eternal blessings and promises we have in Christ. It reminds us of our future hope and the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Being a follower of Christ means becoming part of God's family, for we are all His beloved children. There is an intimate relationship with God, therefore the grace has been lavished upon us. The reconciliation and reunion with God has happened. Hence we are forgiven children of God. As a result, the nature of discipleship and mission is to embrace community, humility, trust in God’s provision, and a willingness to face rejection. As we meditate on these verses, may we find the courage and grace to live out these principles in our daily lives.

Questions for self-reflection:

1. How can we practice humility and reliance on God's strength rather than our own?
2. In our own lives, how can we foster a sense of community and mutual support in our spiritual and daily endeavors? Are we willing to lean on others and offer our strength to those in need?
3. Are we willing to simplify our lives and place our trust in God’s provision? 
4. Are we attentive to the guidance and work of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

Prayer based on Psalm 85

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude, knowing that Your salvation is near to those who fear You, that Your glory may dwell in our land. Lord, let Your unfailing love and faithfulness meet together in our lives, and let Your righteousness and peace kiss each other in our hearts and communities. Father, we long for Your faithfulness to spring forth from the earth and for Your righteousness to look down from heaven. May Your blessings be upon us, that our land may yield its harvest and Your divine presence walk among us.

Guide our steps in Your righteousness, O Lord, and let it go before us, preparing the way for our journey. Help us to live in a manner that reflects Your love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace, bringing honor to Your name. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

July 11, 2024