July 6: The Day of the Lord

One of the reasons some of us prefer to delegate the Lord’s “evangelistic work” (spreading the Gospel) to priests, Religious, and missionaries is that we think of them as “the professionals” or “those entrusted by the Church to do such things.” But another reason is that we fear rejection.

If our words and the way we live each day tell others about Jesus, we sometimes do risk being  labeled as “religious fanatics,” “REALLY Catholic,” or perhaps, simply as “old-fashioned.” And, many times, we take the rejection personally. So, Jesus consoles us and encourages us: “Let your peace come back to you.”  This means, “Don’t take it personally. You have done your part, so don’t worry about the outcome.” He then adds, “Rejoice because your names are written in heaven” – in the Book of Life!  

It is not up to us to force anyone to accept Jesus. Our mission is to prepare the way. If a person’s heart is open, the Lord will enter in. Give this some thought as you hear these words this weekend: “Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.”

From St. Therese, the Little Flower: “Never grow tired of doing little things for others. Sometimes those little things occupy the biggest part of their hearts.” By the grace of God, plant the seeds, nurture them if possible, but leave both the growth and the eventual harvest in God’s hands.