14th Sunday Ordinary Time Year C

 📖 Homily for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Readings:

First Reading: Isaiah 66:10-14

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 66:1-7, 16, 20

Second Reading: Galatians 6:14-18

Gospel: Luke 10:1-12, 17-20

Theme: Sent in Simplicity, Returning in Joy

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today’s readings speak to us about mission, peace, and the quiet, steady power of trusting in God as we go about our daily tasks and responsibilities.

In the Gospel, we find Jesus sending out seventy-two disciples, not alone but in pairs. Notice how carefully Jesus prepares them. He doesn’t give them riches, elaborate plans, or tools of persuasion. Instead, he instructs them to travel light — “carry no purse, no bag, no sandals” — and to proclaim peace wherever they go.

This simplicity reminds us of an essential truth: the effectiveness of our Christian mission does not depend on what we possess, but on whom we represent. The disciples were to be bearers of peace and healing, signs that the Kingdom of God had drawn near.

What Does This Mean for Us?

Each of us, by virtue of our baptism, is also sent out into the world. We are sent into our families, our workplaces, our neighborhoods, to be bearers of peace, mercy, and hope. Like the disciples, we don’t always need elaborate words or perfect circumstances. Sometimes, it’s our very presence — a word of encouragement, a silent prayer for someone, an act of kindness — that proclaims God’s nearness.

Notice too that Jesus warns the disciples not to be discouraged if they are rejected. “If they do not welcome you,” he says, “shake the dust from your feet.” Not everyone will accept the message of peace, but that must not deter us from being faithful.

Joy in Mission

When the seventy-two returned, they were overjoyed, exclaiming, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name!” But Jesus gently corrects them — telling them not to rejoice primarily in their power over evil, but in the fact that their names are written in heaven.

This is a beautiful reminder for us: it is not about the success or recognition we receive in our efforts to do good, but about remaining faithful and knowing that our relationship with God is secure.

A Message of Comfort

The First Reading from Isaiah gives us a tender image of God’s care: like a mother comforting her child. “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you,” God says. In the context of mission and the challenges we face in life, this is a comforting assurance. No matter the trials or rejections, God’s embrace is always waiting for us.

Conclusion

Dear friends, as we reflect on these readings:

Let us go forth in simplicity, not overly attached to possessions or positions.

Let us be messengers of peace, offering kindness, forgiveness, and hope.

And let us always remember that our greatest joy is not in our achievements, but in knowing that we belong to God.

May the peace of Christ be with you all, and may your name be written forever in heaven.

Amen.