Saint Benedict, Abbot 

Genesis 46:1-7,​28-30
Psalm36(37):3-4,18-19,27-28,39-40
Matthew 10:16-23

The Spirit of the Lord will be speaking in you.

In today’s gospel, Jesus boldly tells his apostles, “I’m sending you out like sheep among wolves!” Can you feel the thrill of that call? Even as He prepares them for the inevitable trials and tribulations ahead, He empowers them with unwavering courage to face the persecution He endured.

Just like Jesus was gearing up His apostles for their journey through hardship, Matthew is rallying his community to brace for the challenges of rejection and opposition. “When they deliver you up,” Jesus urges, “don’t fret about what you’ll say. In that moment, the Spirit will speak through you!” How incredible is that? The apostles weren’t meant to stress over their defense – they were promised divine guidance! Matthew’s community was called to embrace this trust, and we, the Church, are summoned to do the same.

In a world that often feels consumer-driven, subjective, and indifferent to the transformative message of Jesus Christ, we have a vital mission ahead of us! Let’s stand ready to share the Good News, no matter the obstacles.

Today, my prayer is simple yet powerful: that we all surrender ourselves to this journey of transformation, daring to be the hands of Jesus in building God’s kingdom right here on earth! Let’s embrace this challenge with excitement and purpose!

Fr Joseph Osho