As we hear in our first reading with the angel urging Lot onward, we cannot help but think of the early settlers of this great country who trusted in God, and the angels led them through the many journeys to this sacred land. Today, the United States church remembers Franciscan Junipero Serra, who founded the missions in Sierra Gorda and twenty others in present-day California.

We have a complicated history of “discovery” and evangelization. While the winds of the sea obeyed the Christ, do we obey his commandment to go to the ends of the earth and bring good news, to live good news? While we may not travel the globe, in our “little world,” we have the opportunity to share the story of our faith and the one who transformed our lives. The Blessed Sacrament gives us hope amid the storms of this world. We can share good positivity that transforms others with our kindness and care.

One thing is for sure: it took courage for Lot, other prophets, Junipero, and other missionaries to travel through great plains, mountains, deserts, and seas and trust God would open a better path and help them evangelize.

Also, look at the winds and worries the disciples had in the boat. While the first disciples of Christ feared for their lives, we think of the missionaries across the globe who wake up with a nagging fear in their lives, wondering if this will be the day they are persecuted or martyred for the faith. May we pray for those persecuted, but realize we have it relatively safe. We can positively make a difference as a missionary who shares “good news,” and is good news to others.

Prayer

O God, you search and know us and lead us onward to new adventures each day. As you have blessed us and missionaries with the gift of evangelization, guide us all with your goodness and grace. May we always be grateful for your care for us and for teaching us to bring justice for all, through Christ our Lord.