Reflection
There are several key messages found in our scripture readings today. In the first reading from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, we are reminded that we are no longer strangers and sojourners, but fellow citizens with the holy ones and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the Apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus himself as the capstone.
In the gospel reading we find Jesus the capstone, appointing his twelve apostles. We have all been called in different ways to follow Jesus the capstone. We may not know all of our fellow sisters and brothers who have been called to preach the word of God, but if we are open to listening to our fellow citizens who have gone before us in faith as well as those who preach and teach daily in our midst, we will be following the mandate that Jesus gave each of us to spread his message of love, mercy and forgiveness.
In the gospel of Luke, we see that Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God.
When we follow the model of Jesus as he took time out of his busy life to spend time in prayer and reflection, our mission as disciples will not only be successful, but it will enrich our life spiritually as well.
The call to discipleship requires us to live a life of faithful service to all God’s people. Today we remember Saints Simon and Jude, two of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. They were among the first bishops and bore the sacred responsibility of transmitting the Sacraments and teachings of Jesus to a nascent Church. Simon and Jude travelled to Persia to preach the Gospel and were killed there in the year 65. They also ministered in Armenia, Beirut, Roman Britain, Egypt, and Samaria and died by arrows, and crucifixion. The church commemorates Saint Simon and Saint Jude on a single feast day because of their ancient association in shared missionary work and martyrdom.
We thank Simon and Jude and all the holy men and women whose lives of service have strengthened the faithful in the past. As disciples who minister in the Church in our time, we recommit our selves to a life of prayer, mercy and love for all God’s people.
Saint Simon and Saint Jude, pray for us!
