Go on your way

Greetings on this the Memorial of Saints Cyril, Monk, and Methodius, Bishop
Readings: Acts 13:46-49; Psalm 117:1bc, 2; Luke 10:1-9

Summary

The kingdom of God is at hand for you (Lk 10:9b).

Reflection

Preaching the word of God is not frictionless. There are many types of resistance. From our first reading, Paul and Barnabas found resistance among the Chosen. For the 72 disciplines of Jesus, people lacking peace and towns lacking faith. For Cyril and Methodious, even within the House of God, resistance.

Both Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first, but since you reject it … we now turn to the Gentile. Behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand (Acts 13:46; Lk 10:3b, 5-6, 11b).

Their free use of the vernacular in preaching led to opposition from the German clergy. The bishop refused to consecrate Slavic bishops and priests, and Cyril was forced to appeal to Rome (https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saints-cyril-and-methodius/).

Personal Reflection

Friction is fear.

For our part, love casts out fear.

Our Alleluia verse summerizes the ‘sending’ and the purpose. Go on your way!

The Lord sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor and to proclaim liberty to captives (Lk 4:18).

Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/0214-memorial-cyril-methodius.cfm

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry