Photo by Msgr. Jack Myslinski -- A Berkshire Sunset
The first reading today again gives us thought about the role of Jesus the high priest. In this role he is somewhat different than the other high priests of history. They continued to offer sacrifices for their own
sins and the sins of the people. The one time perfect sacrifice of Jesus' life is a perpetual offering for our sins. We daily are graced by his presence with the Father, interceding for each of us.
The gospel recalls the selection of the Twelve who would be the "executive staff" for Jesus during his time of apostolic ministry. But in addition to them he invited others to come with him, to follow him in his work to bring about the Father's will, to bring about our redemption.
We are invited each day to be like the Apostles. We are invited to preach the Word of God ... not necessarily from a pulpit or on a street corner with a banner and bible in hand. We are called to preach the gospel by the live we live. How we live our lives is our pulpit. From what others see in our actions they receive a message of our spirituality. So, indeed, we are called to preach by what we say, what we do.
Likewise, we are called to a special healing ministry. We may not be able to stretch out our hands to touch someone who is in need of healing and bring about a realization of those graces. No, most of us cannot do that. However, there are many ways that we can bring about healing. Have you heard someone say how good they felt after someone visited them in a hospital or who called them at home when that person did not feel up to snuff or when circumstances just felt like a ton of bricks on their shoulders. A smile, a loving hug, a kind word ... these are our healing instruments.
What are yours? How are you a preacher of God's will and Word?
