Today’s Gospel reminds us to be “doers of the Word and not just hearers.” Christians are called to be active in the world. Each one of us is a missionary disciple who, through our Baptism, is the presence of Christ, bringing joy and hope to each other. We don’t have to go to foreign lands to claim the title of missionary. Wherever we are, our mission is to be missionaries to ourselves, others, and all of Creation.
As we enter the Season of Creation, we are to be in solidarity with those who suffer. We are connected to each other and to all of Creation. The gift of faith tells us that as we embrace the challenge of living in “Our Common Home,” we are transformed into the true likeness of God who created us. During this Season of Creation, the Gospel will constantly challenge our perceptions and direct us to be witnesses of Christ to others. We transform, leading us to witness and proclaim that God is good.
Our Lord chooses us to be an instrument in His kingdom. This is not a mere title, but a profound responsibility. We are called to come closer to the heart of Jesus. We must imitate Jesus’ love and merciful actions in us and all Creation. We must spend our time and talents for this purpose. When we encounter people, and they experience us, do they experience the Lord’s Spirit?
We must never lose the hope and joy found in Jesus’ life and words. We carry this joy wherever we go in order to discover again the joy that has always brought us close to the Lord. God is always close to us. All we have to do is call him and make our request known.