TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
9 JULY, 2025
Matthew 10:1-7
Jesus summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness.
The names of the Twelve Apostles are these: first, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him. Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, “Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
In this Gospel, Jesus empowers his Twelve Apostles, calling each by name. He sends them on mission not to distant lands at first, but to their own people who have gone astray. His instructions are clear: Proclaim that the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.
This moment is the birth of the Church’s mission. Jesus shares his own authority with ordinary people so they can continue his saving work. He entrusts them with the power to heal, liberate, and preach. God calls each of us by name. He doesn’t wait until we’re perfect to send us. He empowers us to share his love, right where we are.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, you called the Twelve by name and sent them out with your authority and love. Call me by name today.Give me the courage to speak of your Kingdom and to serve others with compassion and healing. Help me see those around me who feel lost and abandoned. Send me as your messenger of hope. May your Kingdom come in my heart, my home, and my world. Amen
