One Body of Christ

In our gospel for today, Jesus summons the twelve disciples again, calling them to drive out the unclean spirits and curing every disease and illness. What is interesting is that Matthew names the 12 apostles whom Jesus sent out. According to a commentary for this gospel, there is a reason that Matthew calls these apostles by name. The author notes that these apostles were a diverse group with a style quite unlike Jesus. Several of the apostles were fisherman, one was a tax collector, one a Zealot, and one who hardly needs any mention. The statement at the end of the commentary is what really hits home. "These twelve disciples remind us that differing temperaments, opposing viewpoints, and opposition within the ranks have been a part of the church from the beginning. Here is a reminder of what St. Paul says. As diverse as we are, together we are the Body of Christ called to live out the gospel message" (Lectionary for Mass, 3540). Times have changed but the call of Christ to proclaim the Good News is still loud and clear. It is amazing how God brings people together, from differing backgrounds, personalities, and viewpoints, and makes us the one Body of Christ. We have been entrusted with a great mission and we pray that God will continue to sustain us and give us the grace and strength that we need to bring His work to completion.