Scripture for Mass
Exodus 19:2-6a
Psalm 100(99): 1-2. 3. 5. Response: 3c
Romans 5:6-11
Matthew 9:36-10:8
Each one of us has a highly personalised ‘comfort zone’ – a particular way of living that makes few demands of me and so makes me believe that I’m in control of my life. Moreover, each one of us has developed ingenious ways of fighting off through arguments, avoidance, or anger anyone or anything that threatens to disturb my ‘personal fortress.’
Jesus, by contrast, willingly left his ‘comfort zone’ in heaven and came into out topsy-turvy world. Moreover, his mission within this world was to seek out and save those who lived outside the comfort zone provided by family and community – those who were neglected, ignored, despised or forgotten.
Therefore, when he sent out his disciples to proclaim the reign of God, he commanded them to seek out and restore those who were shunned because of leprosy, those who were considered cursed because of mental illness, and those who were completely hidden from society – as if they were dead – due to the weight of disgrace or shame.
Through the gift of healing, the disciples restored not only the personal life of those troubled individuals, but also their families and villages which had suffered greatly due to the exclusion of a son, a weaver, or a storyteller. Such restoration brought great joy not only on earth but also in heaven!
We Christians are called to continue that same mission by courageously moving out of our comfort zone in order to restore life and share God’s delight with suffering individuals and fractured communities in our world today.
God our Father, renew the grace of the
Holy Spirit in our hearts so that we can continue the
mission of Jesus in our world.
Grant us his wisdom, compassion and courage so
that we can reach out with concern and
care to those on the fringes
of our church community and on the margins of society.
Grant us the grace to trust not in our own
abilities and resources, but rather in
your providence and guidance.
Open our minds and hearts not only to share our gifts
but also to welcome unexpected blessings.
We ask this through Jesus our Mentor and Friend.
Amen.
Fr. Tim Mulroy
