Proclaiming the good news

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Kyrie

University of Johannesburg

Today is Tuesday the 7th of July, in the 14th week of Ordinary Time.

The University of Johannesburg Choir sings the Kyrie: ‘Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy’. These imploring words, which have been sung for centuries, are a reminder of the inexhaustible mercy of God, of God’s unfailing compassion and forgiveness. As you listen, take a moment to ponder your need for that forgiveness, and the need, too, to show that same forgiveness to others.

Kyrie eleison

Christe eleison

3:21

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.

Matthew 9:32-38

After they had gone away, a demoniac who was mute was brought to [Jesus]. And when the demon had been cast out, the one who had been mute spoke; and the crowds were amazed and said, ‘Never has anything like this been seen in Israel.’ But the Pharisees said, ‘By the ruler of the demons he casts out the demons.’

Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’

5:05

Making Sense of Things

Be Still the Earth

Jesus was confronted by human suffering and responded with compassion. Here we see Jesus reaching out to heal those who were on the fringe of his society, at the risk of becoming marginalised himself. How are you moved in similar ways? Do you feel prepared to risk what others think of you in order to help those who are ‘harassed and helpless’?

Are there any situations in your life where you feel drawn to speak up for those without a voice and to help those who cannot help themselves?

As we listen again to this piece of scripture, we become aware that Jesus wants us to grow in love and compassion for those in need. Allow these feelings of concern to stir in your heart.

8:02

Matthew 9:32-38

After they had gone away, a demoniac who was mute was brought to [Jesus]. And when the demon had been cast out, the one who had been mute spoke; and the crowds were amazed and said, ‘Never has anything like this been seen in Israel.’ But the Pharisees said, ‘By the ruler of the demons he casts out the demons.’

Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’

9:25

Jesus understands our feelings of helplessness in the face of suffering. Jesus, however, challenges us to become involved and invites us to share in his ministry. How will you respond to this invitation today?

11:40

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen