The disciples stepped into the unknown. No wait for perfect conditions, they went out, experiencing the joy of acceptance and the pain of rejection. Being missionary disciple is all about embracing the unknown.
The Courage of Pope Saint John XXIII
He brought up to date what the movement of the Church is supposed to be. The "Fresh Breeze" made its way with a trust that the Holy Spirit will intervene especially in trying to blend in with the modern world.
As Pope Saint John XXIII was trying to be a Missionary Disciple for the modern world, there were pushbacks, rejection but because of his simplicity and steadfastness, the Church kept moving forward to meet the needs of the time.
Progressing vs Regressing
Regression is all about stagnation. Afraid to go into the unknown, the future that lies ahead, fear of active faith participation. Progressing on the other hand, allowing faith to mature so to meet the challenges of today.
The nature of our faith is this: Dynamic and ever-moving and with the leadership of Pope Saint John XXIII, this is our personal call to spiritual growth.
With the Church journeying, it is not a modern invention. Synodality was in place after the Ascension of Jesus and the presentation of the Holy Spirit to us at Pentecost.
A Reflection
1. The "Unknown" Area: What is the comfort zone am I called to leave behind?
2. Christian Live-out: Living out my Christian value, do I depend on the Holy Spirit or rely only on my knowledge?
3. Century Test: The difference in fulfilling weekly obligations vs. actively living out my life as a Missionary Disciple in where I am.
Scripture, prayer and the closing quote
Scripture of the Day
Isaiah 25: 6-10, Psalm 22: 1-6, Philippians 4: 12-14, 19-20, Matthew 22: 1-14 (or 22: 1-10)
“Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do.” - Pope Saint John XXIII
Published by: Archdiocesan Pastoral Institute (API) | Email: [email protected]