Memorial of Saints Paul Miki and his Companions, Martyrs

The Letter to the Hebrews constantly contrasts the first and second covenants and all the elements that characterized each. Today’s passage contrasts the differing modes of divine communication, namely the frightening phenomena of nature designed to inspire awe and obedience and the heavenly Jerusalem that aims at inviting participation. Both are valuable and even necessary at different times in our journey of faith. The Letter refers to “…Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and the sprinkled Blood that speaks more eloquently than that of Abel.” Like the blood of Abel, the blood of Jesus cries out from the earth, from Calvary, begging not for vengeance but for mercy. God will be just through forgiveness and compassion and fulfill every divine promise.

Life in such abundance cannot be a selfish life. It must be shared. Therefore, in our Gospel today, Jesus sends out his disciples two by two to preach, anoint, work miracles, and expel demons. What we have received from Jesus must be shared freely with all. Jesus tells us to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick and sandals – no food, no luggage, no money, no change of clothing. Why would Jesus send out his disciples seemingly so ill-prepared? Jesus wants his disciples to rely on God and the goodwill of others. What we in our self-sufficient society see as recklessness, Jesus commends as a sign of confidence in God—grace in abundance, freely received, and given.

How will I “recklessly” be Eucharist for others today?

Let us Pray:

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit, and we shall be created, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.