It is 31st October 2019. The readings are from Romans 8:31-39; and the Gospel from Luke 13:31-35. Unless we are focused and determined in working for the Lord and the Church, the enemies and self-destructive elements within the Church will destroy the mission of the Church. Untold pain of the missionary disciple is to witness when one is criticised and viciously attacked by the members of the same Church one belongs. In the first reading, St. Paul assures that we are enfolded by God’s love. The abundant love of God offers us the courage and strength when we are invaded and mangled by the forces of evil. We must never lose our focus working for the Lord even all that we stand for is under scrutiny and falsely accused. Jesus himself intercedes for us when they gang against us. Who can be against the missionary disciple when God himself is standing for us? Jesus stands by us and pleads for our cause and therefore we need not fear any person however powerful in the Church and in the society. Nothing has the power to separate us unless we give into fragmented attitudes of selfish people in the Church. “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”(Rom.8:39). The responsorial Psalm intercedes, “Save me, O Lord, because of your love.” (Ps.108:26). The Gospel presents the imminent passion and death of Jesus in the context the way God’s chosen ones are treated. Jesus wants us not be afraid of people like foxes and serpents while proclaiming the Good News. The Gospel bestows special blessings to all the missionary disciples telling, “Blessings on him who comes in the name of the Lord.” (Lk.13:35). How do we treat the missionary disciples when they are sent among us? Do we support them or work against them? “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it!” (Lk. 23:37). As we come close the extraordinary missionary month, may our priorities be there for the missions and missionaries in promoting the culture of love, life, justice and mercy. May God continue to bless the Church on its journey as missionary church. May you have a good day.

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