Dear brothers and sisters, today’s readings bring us profound insights into God’s calling, our identity in Christ, and the mission entrusted to us as His followers. They remind us that God chooses ordinary people to fulfill His extraordinary purposes, and He equips us with the grace and strength needed for our journey.
In our first reading, we encounter the prophet Amos, who is confronted by Amaziah, the priest of Bethel. Amaziah tells Amos to flee to Judah and never again prophesy in Bethel. Amos responds by revealing his humble origins: he was a shepherd and a dresser of sycamores, not a professional prophet. Yet, it was the Lord who took him from following the flock and commanded him to prophesy to Israel. This passage highlights a significant truth: God often calls the unlikely and the ordinary to carry out His work. Amos had no formal training or status, but God chose him because of his willingness to listen and obey. This should encourage us all. We may feel unworthy or ill-equipped, but God’s call is not based on our qualifications. He sees our potential and empowers us to fulfill His purpose. When God calls, He also provides the grace and strength needed to carry out His mission.
In the second reading, St. Paul reminds us of the incredible blessings we have received in Christ. We have been chosen, adopted, and redeemed. God’s plan for us was set before the foundation of the world. We are called to be holy and blameless before Him, destined for adoption through Jesus Christ. In Him, we have redemption and the forgiveness of our transgressions. ‘
This passage beautifully outlines our identity and destiny as Christians. We are not random products of chance but intentional creations of a loving God. Our lives have purpose and meaning because we are part of God’s grand design. This understanding should fill us with profound gratitude and inspire us to live in a manner worthy of our calling. Knowing that we are chosen and loved by God should motivate us to spread this message of love and redemption to others.
In the Gospel, Jesus sends out the Twelve Apostles two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits. He instructs them to take nothing for the journey except a walking stick—no food, no sack, no money. They are to rely on the hospitality of those they meet and, if not welcomed, shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against those towns.
Jesus’ instructions to the Apostles emphasize the importance of trust and dependence on God. By taking nothing for the journey, the Apostles had to rely entirely on God’s provision and the generosity of others. This radical trust is a powerful witness to the world. It shows that the mission of spreading the Gospel is not about material resources or human strength but about God’s power and faithfulness.
The Apostles went out, preached repentance, drove out demons, and healed the sick. Their success was not due to their abilities but to the authority and power given to them by Jesus. This is a reminder that when we step out in faith and obedience, God works through us to accomplish His purposes. Our mission is to proclaim the Good News, trusting that God will provide and work through our efforts.
As we reflect on these readings, let us be reminded of our own calling and mission. Like Amos, we may feel unqualified, but God calls us to speak His truth and live out His love. Like the Ephesians, we are blessed, chosen, and redeemed, called to a life of holiness and purpose. Like the Apostles, we are sent out to proclaim the Gospel, relying not on our strength but on God’s power and provision.
Let us embrace our identity in Christ and answer His call with faith and courage. May we trust in His provision, depend on His strength, and faithfully carry out the mission He has entrusted to us. And as we do, may we experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from living out God’s purpose for our lives.