Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, martyrs
There is a part of me that wishes so badly that I had lived in Jesus’ time and had had the chance to follow him. To sit at the feet of THE teacher? That would have been incredible. But as heady as that experience would have been, the word from Jesus today would have been something of a challenge (to say the least).
Jesus: So, Sue, I understand that you are prepared to spread the Good News!
Sue: Yes, Jesus! I’m your gal! Your gospel has changed my life!
Jesus: That’s great. So, here’s the deal. You are to head out today from your comfy home in Oakwood and begin in earnest spreading the good news!
Sue: That sounds great! I’m all for it!
Jesus: Here’s even better news—no need to stress about packing—because there’s no need! All you need is a pair of flip flops, one simple dress (a maxi dress would be perfect—comfy and modest), and a walking stick.
Sue: Ahh, really? Just one outfit? Is that gonna work? I mean, I’m cool with leaving the vast majority of my possessions behind to share the good news. But . . . um, how is that working? I mean by day five? Who’s going to be willing to host me? I think I might be . . . pretty unwelcome by then!
Jesus: Not to worry! Remember, it’s not about you! It’s about the good news! And if they don’t groove on it, then head on out. Go on to the next town!
Sue: But I think I’ll still be smelling pretty bad in the next town?
Jesus: It’ll be fine! Remember, salvation is at hand!
There are times when Jesus asks of us more than we can make sense of or even imagine. Sometimes, like when he tells us to love our neighbors as ourselves, or turn the other cheek, or love our enemies, or even more powerfully, models Christian love in the most concrete and unforgettable way with seemingly unworthy sinners (like us), we just don’t know if we are up to it. And often we are not.
And while that is unsettling, it’s also instructive. Jesus asks a lot of us. And, as with the reading today, it’s good to remember that. It’s good to experience our discomfort with his asks. They reminds us that we still remember Jesus—who he is and what he calls us to. Our discomfort is instructive. So long as we don’t ignore it.
- Sue Trollinger