Friends, today's readings are united by a movement from spiritual need to spiritual abundance, captured by the words Penitence, Power, a...
Friends, today's readings are united by a movement from spiritual need to spiritual abundance, captured by the words Penitence, Power, and Providence.
First, we begin with Penitence. Ezra’s prayer is a stunning example of humble confession. He is "ashamed and confounded to raise my face to you, O my God." He doesn't minimize the people's sins but acknowledges them, trusting only in God's mercy which left them a "remnant." This profound humility—this Penitence—is the necessary first step for us as well. We must acknowledge our sin to receive grace.
Second, the Gospel introduces Power. After the disciples had likely learned the lesson of humility and reliance on Christ, He "gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases" and sent them to preach. God's power is granted not to the proud, but to those who, through penitence, empty themselves and rely on Him.
Third, we see Providence. Jesus instructs the apostles, "Take nothing for the journey... neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money." He tells them to rely on God's Providence. Their task, like the work of the remnant in Ezra's time, is not accomplished by their own might, but by the one who sends them. God will provide the means for the mission.
Let us embrace this sequence: Through humble Penitence, we open ourselves to Christ's Power, and we move forward in faith, trusting entirely in His perfect Providence. Amen.
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