Reflections on Sunday’s Mass: July 4, 2010

This is the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Our readings focus on one’s journey as a “faithful” disciple. “Rejoice” is a word/theme running through our readings.

• Isaiah 66: 10-14c “Rejoice – Jerusalem will be rebuilt.” As with any refugee group, returning to one’s homeland after years in exile and seeing the land ravaged leaves the heart “heavy”. Yet the Word of God encourages us to never forget that God is always nourishing and comforting us in our journey. What wonderful things has God done for you recently?
• Gal 6:14-18 Paul glories in the cross, a symbol the world does not accept. For Paul what’s important is our faith in Christ and the power of his cross.
• Luke 10: 1-12, 17-20 Every weekend at the conclusion of our liturgy we are sent forth to spread the Word of God in word and action. Following Jesus is demanding work like harvesting a field. We like the seventy two disciples in today’s gospel can be instruments of bringing others to Christ. Our reward will be found in heaven.

We celebrate today as Americans our independence. Let us pray in thanksgiving for our freedoms.