Jesus is not looking for believers – He is looking for followers

We have been called to heal wounds, to unite what has fallen away, and 

to bring home those who have lost their way. Many who seem to us to be children of the Devil will still become Christ's disciples. -  Francis of Assisi

Gospel Text: (MT 10:7-15)

Jesus said to his Apostles:
"As you go, make this proclamation:
'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.'
Cure the sick, raise the dead,
cleanse the lepers, drive out demons.
Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.
Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts;
no sack for the journey, or a second tunic,
or sandals, or walking stick.
The laborer deserves his keep.
Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it,
and stay there until you leave.
As you enter a house, wish it peace.
If the house is worthy,
let your peace come upon it;
if not, let your peace return to you.
Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words—
go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet.
Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable
for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment
than for that town."

Although our times may not be ideally suited for sharing our faith, that is no excuse for avoiding our mission.  There’s a lot of uncertainty, confusion, and pain in the world.  All the more reason that Christ urgently calls us to share his good news, to bring about healing and shalom to a hurting and angry world.  

In today’s gospel Jesus gives us a pointed reminder about our responsibility:  Without cost, we have received the gift of faith, and without cost – read that, despite the cost – we are to share our faith with all.

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