Friday – 14th Week in Ordinary Time

Gospel – Matthew 10:16-23

This is Gonna Hurt – A Lot!!

Garden of Gethsemane, Jerusalem

Nobody likes to go to the doctor’s office.  Besides the fear that something is seriously wrong, there is that underlying terror that you are going to hear THOSE words – this is going to hurt a little.  What a lie!  It never hurt a little; it hurt a lot and it kept hurting for hours afterward. 

Today’s Gospel continues Jesus’ “marching orders” to His disciples as He prepares to send them off to spread the Word!  So far He has instructed them on what to bring, what not to bring, what they will be doing and how to approach people in general (peace be with you).  But today is different, way different. 

Jesus basically waits til the last minute to add these words to His instructions.  It is His “oh by the way” talk.  He warns them that the world will respond very poorly to their message.  You will be whipped and abused.  You will be hauled into court and accused of all sorts of crimes.  You will be betrayed and your own family will disown you.  You will be hated and constantly on the run.  You will be like sheep among wolves.  Now get going!

Worst Pep Talk Ever!!

However, in the midst of all that doom and gloom, Jesus does remind the disciples that the Spirit will be with them to guide and inspire them.  You are not alone, ever!  That is a good reminder for us all when we feel down or troubled, alone and abandoned.  You are not alone; you never have been!

Creator, thank you for the dawn of a new day.  Each sunrise brings the hope of new life and a renewed spirit.  Help me to see Your presence in all I do and all I encounter this bright new day.  Aho!

On a personal note – birthday blessing and best wishes today to my sister, Theresa!

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