11th Sunday in Ordinary Time
My dear parishioners,
God Is Good!!! All the Time!!! And All the Time!!! God Is Good!!!
The first reading recounts God’s covenant with Israel at Mount Sinai. Having freed them from slavery in Egypt, God calls them to be his “treasured possession” among all peoples. Israel is chosen not for its strength or greatness but because of God’s love. They are called to live as a holy people and to reflect God’s presence to the nations.
In the second reading, St. Paul reminds us that God’s love is freely given. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. God’s love reaches out to us not because we deserve it but because God is merciful and desires our salvation. Through Christ, we are reconciled with God and given new life.
Today’s Gospel introduces Jesus’ mission discourse. As Jesus looks upon the crowds, he is filled with compassion because they are “troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd.” In response, he calls the Twelve Apostles and sends them out to continue his ministry of preaching, healing, and serving God’s people.
Moved by Compassion. The Gospel begins with Jesus’ compassionate gaze upon the crowds. He sees their struggles, confusion, and spiritual hunger. Jesus does not remain indifferent to human suffering. His heart is moved by the needs of the people. This same compassion is needed today. As disciples, we are called to see others through the eyes of Christ and respond with kindness, understanding, and care.
The harvest is abundant. Jesus tells his disciples that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. God’s work in the world is great, and many people are searching for hope and meaning. Before sending the disciples, Jesus tells them to pray for laborers. Prayer remains the foundation of every Christian mission. Every baptized person is called to participate in bringing the Good News to others through words and actions.
Called and sent. Jesus calls the Twelve by name and entrusts them with his mission. Their authority comes not from themselves but from Christ. Though imperfect, they are chosen and sent. The same is true for us. God continues to call ordinary people to serve in extraordinary ways. We are invited to trust not in our own abilities but in God’s grace working through us.
Freely you have received. Jesus concludes by reminding his disciples: “Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.” Everything we have is a gift from God. Having received God’s love and mercy, we are called to share them generously with others. Through acts of service, compassion, forgiveness, and faith, we continue the mission entrusted to the apostles and help bring God’s kingdom closer to the world.ng
Excerpts from “Sunday Homily Helps”, is used by permission of Franciscan Media. www.FranciscanMedia.org. All rights reserved
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Aloysius