Homily, July 6, 2025
From The Pastor
Relatability. For any project, campaign, or endeavor to gain traction and broad support it must be relatable. The Christian life is neither a project, campaign, nor endeavor. It is a relationship of faith, revealed in the Lord Jesus who invites us to share in the building of the Kingdom of God. For the gospel and the life of Jesus to be effectively embraced in the modern world, it must be relatable.
If Christianity were to describe itself in long and complex theories, equations, and practices it would draw little attention. Christianity is simple because God is simple. The pastoral letters of Saint John make this as clear as possible. ‘God is love. Those who live in love live in God and God in them.’ 1 John 4:16. Having recently reflected on the mystery of the Holy Trinity and the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, we can take consolation in the truth of God as the Essence of love. In God as our Creator, through the life of the Lord Jesus, we share the same nature and essence of God.
Somethings can be simple, but difficult to accomplish. Today’s gospel is a good example. The message is that of discipleship as Jesus prepares to send the Apostles on their first missionary experience. We understand the intention of the words because they are familiar to us. But are they relatable to most people in our post-modern world? Are these directives for discipleship with Jesus going to appeal and draw interested and committed followers?
In many ways, yes. In other ways, not so much. When sent out on a new encounter, most of us are more comfortable having a companion to help break the ice and calm any sense of fear or doubt. It is encouraging to know that the harvest is abundant and ready for gathering. These build hope that the work will be fruitful and effective with anticipation for good success.
Then the part that may not be so inviting. How many today would be willing to leave home with no money, wallet, or credit cards? Who would not want to bring a purse, backpack, or even a suitcase? By implication, this implies that cell phones, GPS routing, and earbuds must be left behind. Not relatable or a big draw these days. Similarly, Jesus asks that there be no solicitation for payment, but rather a willing acceptance of whatever hospitality is offered.
What is the intention of these apparent constraints made by Jesus? The point is that a person goes unencumbered by the things of the world that offer undue support and comfort. The point is to allow yourself to be vulnerable to the message of faith a disciple is sent to proclaim. The point is to be secure in the name and the message of Jesus that motivates and inspires confidence to share the Good News of mercy he offers. Simple. Relatable.
What does discipleship look like, what can it look like in our world today? Every Christian in love with Jesus and his gospel is a disciple. You do not need special permission, a certificate, or a higher degree of education. You need faith, nourished by prayer, and a conviction that you want to share with others the joy and hope you experience in the truth of Christ. The less encumbered a person is with extra props, or concern for comfort, success, or approval the more effective your personal words of experience will be.
Tell your story. Not all fourteen chapters, but those parts of your faith experience that have moved your heart, confirmed your faith, and secured your trust in the Lord Jesus. Storytelling is engaging, inviting, and effective. When an engaging story is told, the listener is often inspired to respond with part of their own experience. The door is open and a connection is made.
Jesus speaks and instructs as he does to not encumber the process that only distracts the message and its acceptance. If you believe your story of faith with confidence in God, if it moves you to share it, it will move others. If you are driving your car, bring your wallet with your license and your credit card. You may be able to assist another. If it is raining, bring your raincoat. If you are walking, wear your shoes. If it is cold, wear socks. Carry what you need to freely bring the light of your faith to another. Prepare yourself to be vulnerable; to take a risk, with the awareness that it may not go as you hope or expect.
The point is to trust in the presence and action of Jesus through the Holy Spirit. The best stories of faith always allow room for the Spirit. When you see a spark of faith in the other, or your own faith is deepened, rejoice and give thanks. God is present and active in your efforts to live the faith we are called to profess. The blessing of any fruit is an act of God in the Spirit. Be brave. Speak truth. Be relatable.
Father John Esper
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