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The World Among Us

Tuesday, September 30, 2003

Meditation
Zechariah 8:20-23

In those days ten men from all languages will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, “Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.” (Zechariah 8:23)

This verse paints a compelling picture at the same time that it issues us a great challenge. If Jesus is truly “Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us,” why aren’t people approaching all of us saying, “Let us go with you, because we have heard God is with you” (Zechariah 8:23)?

“Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” These words attributed to St. Francis of Assisi tell us what true evangelism is. It’s the natural outflow of a life lived in union with Jesus. God doesn’t expect us to be perfect before we try sharing the gospel; he asks only that we allow his love to transform us into the image of Jesus. Over time, as we grow in our confidence that God truly is with us, we will begin to mirror Jesus in the course of our everyday lives, simply by the way we relate to others, or even the way we smile.

Evangelism is not about how great we are. It’s about how great Jesus is. We are simply his ambassadors to this world. This may seem like a lofty goal, but if we take it one step at a time, it is definitely attainable. How can you change the world you live in? Simply by allowing Jesus’ love to flow in you and through you as you relate to coworkers, friends, and family. Offer a word of kindness even when it’s not necessary. Have the humility to admit when you’re wrong. Don’t let the everyday situations of life rob you of your peace in Christ.

Many times it’s simple things like this that can have a big impact on the world around us. Actions speak louder than words, so let’s allow our actions to be our witness. Let’s make it clear that Christ lives in us by the way we live with those around us. Then, this amazing reading will be fulfilled in our lives.

“Lord, I want your promise to be true in my life. Help me to be changed into your likeness. I want to be an ambassador for you and see the world change around me.”

One Bread, One Body

<< Tuesday, September 30, 2003 >>

St. Jerome

Zechariah 8:20-23

Psalm 87

Luke 9:51-56

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READY, GET SET, GO

Jesus “set His face toward Jerusalem.” —Luke 9:51, our translation

Jesus “firmly resolved to proceed toward Jerusalem” (Lk 9:51). This was one of the most important decisions in human history. This decision to go to Jerusalem was a crucial moment in God’s plan of salvation, for it ended in Jesus’ saving death and glorious resurrection.

Immediately after making this decision, Jesus was opposed by Samaritans and had to rebuke James and John to deliver them from the evil one (Lk 9:53, 55). We likewise face serious problems after we make our most important decisions for Jesus. How many people have been rejected by their friends and co-workers after they have decided to give their lives to Jesus! So many Christians have made the decision to be pure, only to face what seemed to be huge temptations, and even abuse, for trying to live a holy life. After I had “set my face” toward the vocation of the priesthood, the devil tried to talk to me out of it by spotlighting many abuses in the Church. Many Christian couples, after they have “set their faces” toward becoming a holy family, experience financial difficulties. Those who set their faces in obedience to God have unsettling experiences.

Nevertheless, we all must keep our faces set towards God’s will in our life. If we do, we will finally rise from the dead after having suffered and died for love of Jesus. Set your face (see Is 50:7).

Prayer: Father, may I not move to the right or to the left, but be set in Your ways (Dt 5:32).

Promise: “Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem and to implore the favor of the Lord.” —Zec 8:22

Praise: St. Jerome was gifted by God with a special brilliance and he used that natural gift to further God’s kingdom.