Gospel
Luke 10:1-12
Jesus appointed seventy-two other disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to l them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.’ Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, ‘The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you.’ Yet know this: the Kingdom of God is at hand. I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town.”
Sermon
My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's Gospel reading presents Jesus sending out 72 disciples to prepare for his ministry. This passage teaches us about our role as laborers in God's harvest.
The Abundant Harvest:
Jesus says, "The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few." The harvest represents the countless people seeking spiritual nourishment. We are called to labor in this harvest.
Going Forth with Faith:
Jesus instructs the disciples:
- Travel light, trusting in God's provision
- Focus on the mission, avoiding distractions
- Bring peace and healing to households
- Receive hospitality graciously
Rejection and Perseverance:
Not everyone will welcome the disciples. Jesus warns:
- Some will reject the message
- Shake off the dust, symbolizing separation
- The Kingdom of God is still at hand
Implications for Us:
As followers of Jesus, we are also sent out:
- Share the Good News with others
- Trust in God's provision and guidance
- Bring peace and healing to those around us
- Persevere despite rejection or adversity
Conclusion:
May we respond to Jesus' call, laboring in the abundant harvest. May our faith and obedience bring glory to God.
Lord Jesus, send us out in your name, empowered by your Spirit.
Grant us faith and perseverance to labor in your harvest.
May your peace and healing touch those around us. Amen.
Prayer
Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Almighty, merciful, and loving God, we pray to be sent out in Jesus' name, empowered by Your Spirit.
Grant us faith and perseverance to labor in Your abundant harvest.
Help us travel light, trusting in Your provision and guidance.
May Your peace and healing touch those around us.
We pray for:
- Courage to share the Good News
- Focus on God's mission
- Trust in divine provision
- Perseverance in adversity
- Kindness and healing for those in need
In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.
Prayer for Evangelism:
Lord, send us out to share Your love and message.
Empower us with Your Spirit, guiding our words and actions.
May Your harvest be abundant, and Your name be glorified. Amen.
Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ