9.25.24 Homily

In today's gospel, we see Jesus sending out the Twelve Apostles on a mission. This represents the first missionary journey, where they were empowered to spread the good news and heal the sick. Jesus instructed them to travel light and bless those who welcomed them while remaining resilient in the face of rejection. This lesson emphasizes that each of us is called to share God's word and love, continuing the mission of spreading faith that began with Jesus. It's a reminder that, as baptized individuals, we have a role in carrying forth this mission. Reflecting on the importance of God's word, we understand it guides us in our own journeys. Just as the apostles went forth empowered and trusting in God, we too are encouraged to embrace our mission in life with faith and dedication, using God's word as our light.

Hearing God's word is like preparing for a test. Just as students focus on what’s important for exams, we should pay close attention to the teachings of Jesus. Life will provide us with chances to practice love, forgiveness, and self-sacrifice. Each day might bring unexpected challenges that test our commitment to these principles. When we encounter someone who insults us, it’s a moment to respond with grace, not anger. When we’re asked to love others as Jesus did, we’re given real opportunities to show that love. Following Jesus means accepting our crosses, even when they're unexpected. These trials aren't just meant for recalling lessons; they are designed for us to apply the teachings in our lives and grow spiritually. By embracing these tests, we open ourselves to the possibility of transformation and learning, realizing that our faith is strengthened through practice.

Being truthful is essential in our lives, especially during challenging times. When we encounter sickness or trials, we should have faith and strive to help others. Proverbs teaches us to distance ourselves from lies and falsehoods. Lies can grow, starting as harmless ones but leading to a habit of dishonesty. To truly live in truth, we need to reject falsehood completely and uphold honesty, as Jesus emphasized. In today's world filled with fake news and misinformation, it’s critical to speak the truth with credibility. Only by valuing truth can we effectively share our beliefs and be trustworthy messengers. In all situations, we must hold fast to honesty, ensuring our words reflect the truth so we can help others and fulfill our purpose.

To follow God’s teachings accurately, we must be careful not to distort the words of Scripture. Just like Eve misquoted God’s command, we can easily add our own interpretations or soften hard truths. Honesty is crucial for a Christian; if we lie, it will harm our credibility and make others doubt our faith. Our reputation for truthfulness matters because it shows our commitment to living by God’s word. If we want others to believe in Jesus and the truths of our faith, we need to be truthful and consistent in what we say and do. Only then can we inspire others to explore the Word of God sincerely.

Integrity and truthfulness are vital attributes for any leader or individual. The discussion highlights how trustworthiness plays a crucial role in relationships and governance, as seen in history with leaders like Saddam Hussein, who preferred Christians in his cabinet because he believed they had a commitment to truth. In contrast, the notion that 'the end justifies the means' in some belief systems can lead to mistrust. This call for honesty is echoed in the resistance against oppressive regimes, where individuals chose to reject lies as a stand against deception. Embracing truth fosters genuine connections and strengthens our resolve against evil. Spiritual teachings also encourage moderation, urging us not to seek extremes in wealth or poverty, but rather focus on having just enough to meet our needs. Living truthfully and seeking fairness can ultimately lead to a stronger, more just society.

When Jesus sent the disciples on their journey, he emphasized trust in God's provision by instructing them to travel light and rely solely on faith. This means we should focus on what we need for today, rather than seeking abundant wealth or excess. Living simply showcases genuine belief in God's care, illustrating a balance where we avoid both extreme poverty and excessive materialism. By trusting God to meet our daily needs, we can live in a way that makes our faith believable to others, just as the Franciscans do. Their way of life reflects a true reliance on God, supporting the message of love and providence that Jesus taught us. It encourages us to ask for our daily bread, fostering a spirit of gratitude and trust rather than greed or anxiety about the future.

Greed leads us to constantly want more, even when we achieve financial success; we always strive for greater wealth. This relentless pursuit is likened to drinking salt water, which only increases thirst. To live like Jesus, who valued truth over riches, we should focus on sharing the gospel genuinely. The teachings in Proverbs guide us to seek just enough, reinforcing that God provides us with the true nourishment we need—his presence. As we prepare to share the gospel, we should strive to embody honesty and integrity, reflecting the truth that sets us free. Our lives should be a testament to the values Jesus exemplified, encouraging others to seek spiritual fulfillment rather than material wealth.