St. Anthony & Our Lady of Fatima

For centuries, societies have tried to answer the question “Who is my neighbor?” Today’s reading depicts a person who offers mercy to a stranger in answer to this question.  As a Christian, our response to another should be to provide mercy.  That is especially true when the person cannot reciprocate.  Today’s Gospel account portrays mercy well since it personifies not only a good deed but how another is acknowledged and accorded dignity.  Whom do you encounter who would be grateful for your recognition?

Going with another person to another city to preach the Gospel may not be our vocation.  However, we are doing God’s work when we wish peace to those we meet.  No matter the circumstance or place, a Christian is to act as an instrument of peace.  The Eucharist empowers us to bring Christ’s peace to others.  As we Christ in our lives, may we emanate the peace that we have received.

As Jesus calls people, we hear legitimate reasons for putting off the call to follow.  Jesus replies that another can bury the dead or bid farewell.  What keeps you from following Christ?  Are there things that you need to release or allow to die so that you may freely follow Christ?  If anger or past hurts are holding you back, it may be time to say goodbye to them and move on.  Today Jesus may be urging you not to look back.

Jesus looked lovingly on the crowd and provided for them.  Through the Eucharist, God continues to offer food for the journey.  At Mass, we offer our lives up and Christ nourishes us at the table of the Lord.  We are then dismissed to “go and announce the Gospel,” making our lives nourishment for others.  At times we may feel we are living in a deserted place and barren.  But we can always come to the Eucharist to eat and be satisfied.  We trust that God’s love is bountiful, and we give that love to others.