In today’s Gospel, it is clearly seen that Jesus summoned his disciples and shared with them his power – his authority over impure spirits and illness. We can ask a question here, why did Jesus call his disciples and give them power? And the answer to this question is: Jesus called his disciples and shared his power with them because Jesus had planned that his disciples would continue his vision and mission to bring and proclaim that the Kingdom of Heaven is close at hand.
But, we can raise another question too. What is the meaning of the Kingdom of Heaven which is close at hand? Jesus said that the Kingdom of Heaven is close at hand because Jesus wants them to continue his mission. All disciples have to work hard for salvation, love, peace, grace, and healing of people. If the Kingdom of Heaven is not proclaimed among God's people, the disciples fail to carry out the tasks that was entrusted to them. We can remember what Jesus said about the Kingdom of God or the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus said in Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well”. Moreover, in his prayer, Jesus taught us, “Your kingdom come, your will be done.” So, we can see that the Kingdom of Heaven is very important in the mission which is carried out by his disciples. If they could not proclaim the Kingdom of Heaven, probably they failed in their work.
All of us are disciples of Jesus at this time. And as disciples of Jesus, we are sent by Jesus to proclaim the Kingdom of Heaven. The vision and mission of Jesus is our vision and mission as well. Now, we have to go and proclaim the Kingdom of Heaven. May Love, Peace, and Grace of God be felt more and more on this earth and God’s will reign forever and ever. Amen.
By Fr. Risco Batbual, SVD.
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