Daily Reflections - July 7,2013

MISSIONARIES OF GOD’S LOVE   During my novitiate, we had mission work on holidays. A week or two would be spent in a parish in order to develop skills and missionary experience. Often, we would hike to our destination, or seek a ride from passing travelers. If we were unlucky, we would walk for miles. It was tough, challenging and real missionary work. Traveling to our destination could be a missionary experience, too, especially if we got into a car whose driver had no knowledge of faith, which would then be our springboard to witness and evangelize. Those were the days!        The disciples are called to missionary endeavors. Itinerant preachers were the name of the game. They had a set regime to follow, with words and deeds to match. After a period of time, they returned with joy, sharing their experiences with Jesus. I remember feeling the same way. Upon return, it was a great delight to share with the community the works of God. It was a real testament to the faithful provision of God, for He never failed to provide.        We are all called to be missionaries of God’s love. That is why I admire the Opus Dei, the Focolare Movement, the Disciples of Jesus Community, and other Charismatic communities who seek to bring God to the workplace. It is a tough world out there and it takes courageous souls to conquer it. I am sure, in many of the disciple’s missionary experiences, they were challenged in their faith, love and hope. They would have experienced rejection, with persecution on the side. But the report we find in the Gospel is one of wonder and awe. They paved the way straight for the Lord, who was to follow. Someone once said, “Be ye fishers of men. You catch them —He’ll clean them.” The Lord really does trust us to do His work. Yes, we can be mindful of our weaknesses and shortcomings, but the rewards are “out of this world.” Fr. Brian Steele, MGL   REFLECTION QUESTIONS: What are your mission areas — home, school or work? How can you bring peace and healing to those around you?   Lord, I thank You for calling me to be a missionary. Help me fulfill my mission of bringing Your love to all. Amen.