Gospel: Matthew 10: 1-7
Jesus began his public ministry in the Gospel of Matthew by giving us the Beatitudes, the way we should live in the world. Then he provided examples in the teaching on how to apply the Beatitudes on various questions of the law and human behavior. Finally, Jesus set about to show us in his own life how to live out the Beatitudes by announcing the good news of the kingdom of God and extending mercy to all people through healing, table fellowship, and compassion for all.
Now in today's reading we are commissioned and sent out to do this work of Jesus in the world. The twelve are sent out to do exactly as Jesus did: to announce God's reign as here and now, and to provide mercy, healing, nourishment, and compassion for all. All are called to this work in the world, no matter our background, talents, or worthiness.
Jesus has provided the teaching and examples. He has shown by his own life how to apply the Beatitudes to our own lives. Now he sends us out to live the Beatitudes through a life of mercy and service to others. The work of Jesus is now our work, his circle of concern is now ours. He provides us with all we need to carry out this work in the world.
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