Let all the earth cry out to God with joy. (Psalm 65).
Luke gives us a glimpse into how Jesus organised his evangelising missions – which were not haphazard but, on the contrary, very well planned. In today’s Gospel, Jesus sent out 72 disciples to the places he was to visit, to prepare for his arrival.
It’s remarkable the way Jesus prepared his disciples for their mission. They were to be totally single-minded and committed to their Master. They were to travel light, discarding anything which might impede their journey. Above all, they were to be men of peace, bringing a message of peace and healing, like their Master. There must be no discrepancies or dichotomies between the divine message Jesus would preach and his representatives.
Then, having been faithful to Jesus’ instructions, they were overjoyed by their spiritual power and privilege. But, Jesus cautioned them: their privilege was to be known by name by his Father in heaven.
Father in heaven, may I be a faithful messenger of your Son and may you know me by name now and forever.