Friday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

In the first reading, Israel (Jacob), out of desperation brought on by famine, was ready to leave the land that God had promised him.  Before venturing into Egypt, he stopped at Beer-sheba.  It was in this place, years before, that Jacob, while dreaming heard God promise him and his descendants “the land on which you lie (GN 28:13).”  Jacob returned to Beer-sheba, seeking God’s approval before leaving.  God reassured Jacob by telling him He would accompany Jacob to Egypt.  God also renewed His promise by telling Jacob his descendants would return to the land.  I wonder how Jacob felt in that moment of revelation? What did he do on the last morning in Beer-sheba?  Did Jacob feel sad when stepping into the morning air, knowing this was the last time?  Did he experience profound consolation because God would accompany him?  Based on his actions, Jacob had faith in God’s love and trusted God would bring his prodigy back home. 

This Gospel reading follows the commissioning of the twelve to go forth, spreading God’s message of salvation.  Jesus is preparing them for what to expect during their post-resurrection ministry.  Jesus assured them if they were handed over to the authorities, they would have what they needed.  God’s Spirit would speak through them.  He also warned that the message they proclaimed would not bring peace but rather stir divisions within families (MT.10:21). What thoughts might the Apostles have had upon hearing this message? Was the excitement of their commissioning overshadowed by concerns for their future?  They had previously left home to follow Jesus, but had they expected the journey to take such a difficult path?  Did the Apostles contemplate the possibility of never seeing family and friends (home) again?  Like God’s promise to Jacob, Jesus’ message included reassurances. God would be with them in their ministry and, in the end, those that remained faithful would see Jesus again (MT 10:42).

These texts offer reassurance that God accompanies me, no matter where I go.  My home is a gift from God, but it is only temporary.  Ignatius counsels that a gift should not become a distraction to my relationship with God. Said another way, to be a disciple of Christ, I should use every blessing (gift) to help further the realization of God’s Kingdom.  If my home is a distraction, then I should let it go.  Even if what I own is not a distraction, eventually I will leave this place.  I will either go to another temporary (earthly) home or my permanent home with God.  I have faith that God will accompany me on the journey and is already waiting to welcome me into my next space.  I only need to have faith, use my gifts to be a disciple of Christ and, “Trust in the Lord and do good (Ps 37:3).”