Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Amos 7:12-15 - Ephesians 1: 3-14 - Mark 6: 7-13
“Let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation” - Ps. 85: 9-14
As we consider the ”signs of the times”- war, political unrest, migrancy surges, increase in homelessness, gun violence, discord among world and church leaders, discrimination and oppressive systems, and climate change, we continue to look for solutions. All of these signs call out for a response from those who claim to be followers of Jesus.
In the first reading from Amos, the prophet speaks of the call he received from God to leave his shepherding and care for the land, to speak out against the oppression of the king’s reign in Israel, and to condemn all the injustices that were wrought upon the downtrodden of his day.
It was a theme of his prophecy that all people are equal in the sight of God. His style was often blunt and offensive but can be seen as an inspiration for those who struggle against social oppression and injustice. Amos challenged Israel’s spiritual leaders to repent since they, too, were rejecting Yahweh’s laws.
St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians reminds us of our being chosen by God “in accord with the riches of his Grace for the praise of his Glory.” We are reminded that since we have heard the Word of Truth and have been sealed with the Holy Spirit, we need to be ready to speak the Truth that has been revealed to us.
In the Gospel acclamation, we ask that the eyes of our hearts be enlightened “that we may know what the hope that belongs to our call is.” Mark speaks of the call of Jesus to the disciples to go forth, trusting in him for the courage and strength needed for the journey. They were called to manifest God’s compassion and to bring God’s message of love and mercy to all they encountered along the way. We are called to bring the Gospel message of God’s compassion and mercy to our world today, trusting that those in authority will heed the promptings of the Spirit of God to be able to attend to the cry of the poor. We must continue to pray that God’s spirit of wisdom and compassion will guide our world and church leaders to open their hearts to make decisions that will bring justice and peace to all.
Loving God of infinite mercy and compassion, help us witness to your presence and help others, especially those who are struggling, to place their trust in you. Grant us the courage and strength to speak out against whatever injustice and oppression we see on our journey and respond with love to the call to embrace those who are in need of your mercy.
Sr. Mary Doris, OP
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