Called to the frontlines of encounter

Most of us can recall one special teacher who challenged us to achieve more than we thought possible. It was my honor to have three such teachers: Sister Annunciata, Mrs. High and Mrs. Weber. They had a way of inspiring me to learn and discover. Their example of professionalism, service and unconditional acceptance and empathy for all their students did not go unnoticed. Perhaps for others, it may have been a boss or a coach or a youth minister. The dedication of these individuals, their caring and the wisdom they shared, provided essential values and life skills that can never be forgotten or taken lightly.

To have such an impact on me, these women had to be right on frontlines, walking alongside me in my journey. In a similar way, the Lord asks us to be on the frontlines with others. Look, for example, at today’s first reading when Moses is told to return to the people. It does the people no good if he remains on top of the mountain immersed in an awe-inspiring dialogue with God. He must be right there, doing the Lord's work, testifying to God's love.

The gospel for today also shows this call to do the Lord's work. In it, Jesus challenges those who reject him. He invites them look at the work He has done and let it serve as a testament to His oneness with God. He testifies through his works the very heart of the Father and He invites us to do the same as we try to live out our faith in a very complicated and challenging world, knowing that we not only encounter the best of humanity but oftentimes the worse of humanity.

Jesus encountered all, and we are asked to encounter all as well. We are invited to allow our efforts to create a more just and loving world by the testimony of our works - our works of healing, compassion, and forgiveness. Like Sister Annunciata, Mrs. High, and Mrs. Weber, this is the wisdom that inspires and gives courage.

I pray for myself and all of you that we can commit ourselves to service in a way that reflects the immense forgiveness, compassion and conviction of Jesus. May our actions speak with the voice of the Father and reach out to heal our broken world.

Author: Keith Reese, Theology Department