Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
In today's Gospel Jesus welcomes back the twelve Apostles. He sent them out to preach repentance, drive out demons, and cure the sick. Now they have returned, full of stories of their successes and anxious to tell Jesus all they have done. Jesus has missed his friends. The excitement and anticipation has been tempered though when Jesus and the twelve arrive at their intended place of rest, and the crowd has arrived there first.
Our human tendency is to roll the eyes, get frustrated, and remove "distractions" as soon as possible. Instead, Jesus rolls up his sleeves and gets to work as they were "like sheep without a shepherd." Pastoral ministry can be challenging and exhausting at times. How does Jesus move to compassion and empathy so quickly? His security and rest reside primarily in His relationship with the Father.
What is your habit of prayer and in prayer? If it is distant, I invite you now to come away and rest awhile with the Blessed Trinity.
Scripture Readings July 21, 2024
Jeremiah 23:1-6
Psalm 23:1-6
Ephesians 2:13-18
Mark 6:30-34
