Readings: Hebrews 12:18-19,21-24, Ps. 48:2-4,9-11, Mark 6:7-13
“And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out two by two.” (Mark 6:7)
- The Letter to the Hebrews describes the Church as Mount Sion, the heavenly city. As the Psalmist says: “a day in God’s house is better than a thousand elsewhere.” (Psalm 84:10). Today’s Gospel passage brings to life Mark’s words in Mark 3:13-14: “Jesus went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, to be with him, and to be sent out to preach.”
- The disciples had spent time with Jesus and completed a training phase. The next phase was to go out to preach. By sending them out, Jesus teaches us that learning without practice is incomplete. In psychology, learning is defined as “a change in behaviour as a result of experience.” Without the behaviour change (action), we cannot determine if learning has happened.
- Mark tells us that Jesus “called to him the twelve.” Although they had been following Him, Jesus called them again before sending them out. This second call indicates spiritual empowerment. Religious life is a gift, not a profession. The book of Hebrews says: “One does not take the honour upon himself, but he is called by God, just as Aaron was.” (Hebrews 5:4).
- Jesus sent them out two by two, showing the importance of collaboration. As far as winning souls is concerned, no one ever succeeds alone. At the baptism of Jesus, we heard the voice of the Father identifying Jesus as His beloved son. We also saw the Holy Spirit present in the appearance of a dove. This is collaboration. (Matthew 3:16-17).
- Jesus charged the disciples to take nothing for the journey. They were to go empty-handed as a sign of trust in God, who always provides what is needed. Today’s disciples must also avoid turning preaching into a business. No one can serve two masters. (Matthew 6:24, 1 Timothy 6:9-10). Judas Iscariot’s mistake was to attempt to profit from his knowledge of Jesus, a choice he later regretted.
- Jesus told them not to force themselves on those who will reject them but to leave, simply shaking off the dust on their feet. The minister should never be discouraged or look down on himself when he fails. When the people pleaded with Jesus to leave their town after curing the man with a legion of demons, Jesus returned to the boat and headed home. (Mark 5:1-20).
- Mark tells us that they “went out and preached that men should repent.” Do we tell people what they like to hear or what they ought to hear? When quantity is prioritised over quality, we end up with a church full of Christians who live as enemies of Christ.
- Preaching repentance is the first step to physical and spiritual healing (deliverance from the devil's shackles). Before sending out the twelve, Matthew mentions that Jesus “gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity.” (Matthew 10:1).
- Mark concluded by saying the disciples “anointed many that were sick with oil and healed them.” A sacrament is an outward sign of inward grace ordained by Jesus Christ, by which grace is given to our souls. The disciples of Jesus used visible elements (anointing oil) coupled with faith and prayer, and they healed the sick. There is nothing wrong with praying in your room, but take advantage of the sacraments whenever possible.
- Today, we celebrate the memorial of St. Paul Miki and his companions. Paul Miki was born in Tounucumada, Japan, into a family led by a Japanese military commander. He pursued his education at the Jesuit college in Anziquiama and became a Jesuit himself in 1580. St. Paul was celebrated for his passionate and articulate sermons. On February 5th, during Toyotomi Hideyoshi's crackdown on Christians, he was martyred alongside twenty-five other faithful Catholics. The group of martyrs came from diverse backgrounds, highlighting the widespread reach of Christianity in Japan at the time. Their enduring legacy is celebrated on their feast day, February 6th, honouring their unwavering faith and courage in the face of severe oppression. The Life of Paul Miki and his companions reminds us that preaching may sometimes involve the shedding of our blood.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, fill us with your mighty power that our lives may proclaim you to the world. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saints Paul Miki and his Companions, Martyrs. Liturgical Colour: Red. Bible Study: Hebrews 12:18-19,21-24, Ps. 48:2-4,9-11, Mark 6:7-13).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu