THURSDAY 14TH WEEK IN ORDINARY
TIME YEAR II
Hosea 11:1-4,8-9, Matthew 10:7-15
In the gospel reading of
yesterday, we saw how Jesus chose his 12 apostles. We reflected on the fact
that God chose them despite their imperfections and weaknesses. Nevertheless,
his grace was sufficient for the work he had called them to do.
In the gospel reading of today,
Jesus is sending them out to do the work for which he had called them. His
instructions to them is very interesting. They are not to seek wealth, comfort
and the best of things, but be content with whatever is available to them. They
are to focus on the work God has called them to do, and not think of what they
will eat or drink. Jesus himself will inspire people from among whom they
minister to take care of their needs.
This is almost not the motive of
many modern day preachers we have in our society. Many people think of church
as a special form of business; they interpret the work of God and do all kinds
of things just in the name of money. Some even compromise the truth and do not
shake their feet from those who do not want to listen to the truth.
As pastors of souls, we are not
the one who take care of ourselves, God does. He places people in our lives to
enhance our works. This is very obvious in the first reading of today. God,
speaking through the prophet Hosea, says that he is the one who leads us
through all the hurdles if life that we do not even know. A mother can do all
she can to take care of her children when they are small and they grow up to
scorn and reject her, not knowing all that she had done. It is the same way we
do not acknowledge the work of God in our lives. We think that we can only
succeed if we make effort. Let us concentrate on the good works God has called
us to do, and he will take care of us in his own way. God help us. Amen.
Fr Michael Osatofoh Eninlejie MSP
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