Trust, Mission, and the Kingdom of God

Today’s Mass readings invite us to reflect on a central theme of the Christian life: mission. Whether we are facing trials, like Saint Paul, praising God’s eternal kingship, as the psalmist does, or being sent out by Jesus, as in the Gospel, the message is clear—our mission is to trust in God’s providence and proclaim His Kingdom. These readings remind us that, no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, God is always near. His Kingdom is not only a future reality but also present among us, and we are called to bring that Kingdom closer to others through our words and actions.

As we read about Paul’s endurance despite his abandonment, we are reminded that every Christian is called to persevere in faith, even when we feel alone. The psalmist assures us of God’s faithful and everlasting dominion, inviting us to trust in His justice and nearness. Finally, the Gospel emphasizes the urgency of proclaiming the Kingdom and sharing God’s peace with the world. Together, these readings offer us a powerful roadmap for our spiritual journey: we are to trust in God, rely on His strength in our weaknesses, and boldly proclaim the Gospel in our daily lives.

Let’s explore these readings in depth, discovering how they apply to our lives and how we are called to live out this mission today.

First Reading – 2 Timothy 4:10-17

Paul’s Faith Amidst Abandonment

This passage from 2 Timothy is one of the most personal and emotional writings of Saint Paul, written during his final imprisonment in Rome. The letter is addressed to his spiritual son, Timothy, whom Paul had mentored and appointed to lead the Church in Ephesus. At this stage in Paul’s life, he is nearing martyrdom and reflects on his ministry with a mixture of gratitude, sorrow, and faith. His words reveal the deep loneliness he felt as many of his companions deserted him, yet, in the midst of abandonment, Paul expresses his unshakable trust in God’s presence. This is a letter that offers us a profound insight into Paul’s heart, his vulnerability, and his unwavering dedication to his mission, even in the face of suffering.

2 Timothy 4:10-17
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹⁰ for Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. ¹¹ Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful in my ministry. ¹² I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. ¹³ When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments. ¹⁴ Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will pay him back for his deeds. ¹⁵ You also must beware of him, for he strongly opposed our message.
¹⁶ At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them! ¹⁷ But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 10: “For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.”
Paul begins by lamenting that Demas, one of his former companions, had forsaken him for the allure of the world. This highlights the tension that often exists between the material world and the spiritual call. Demas, who had once been a co-laborer in the Gospel, gave in to the temptations of “this present world” (cf. CCC 2544), reminding us of how easy it is to become distracted by material concerns and lose sight of our eternal mission. Crescens and Titus, though not abandoning Paul for the same reasons, were also no longer with him, contributing to his sense of isolation.

Verse 11: “Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful in my ministry.”
Luke, the beloved physician and author of The Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles, remains faithful to Paul. This verse demonstrates the importance of steadfast friendship and loyalty in the Christian journey. Paul’s mention of Mark is particularly significant, as Mark had once left Paul on a previous missionary journey (Acts 15:38), leading to a sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. Paul’s desire to now have Mark with him shows the power of reconciliation and forgiveness, a key Christian teaching (cf. CCC 1422 on the Sacrament of Reconciliation). This reminds us that broken relationships can be restored, and people can become “useful” again in God’s work.

Verse 12-13: “I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments.”
Paul remains practical even in his final days, focused on continuing his ministry. His request for the cloak is a reminder of his physical needs. This small detail humanizes Paul, showing us that even great saints experience material need and suffering. The books and parchments likely refer to his writings or scriptures, underscoring Paul’s dedication to the Word of God, even in imprisonment. This is a call for us to stay committed to studying God’s Word and nurturing our spiritual life, regardless of our circumstances (cf. CCC 133 on the importance of Scripture in the life of a Christian).

Verse 14-15: “Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will pay him back for his deeds. You also must beware of him, for he strongly opposed our message.”
Paul warns Timothy about Alexander, who had actively opposed the Gospel message. Instead of seeking revenge, Paul leaves judgment to the Lord. This reflects the Christian attitude of trusting in God’s justice rather than taking matters into our own hands (cf. Romans 12:19). It’s a reminder that while opposition and persecution are part of the Christian life, we are called to respond with faith and trust in God’s ultimate justice.

Verse 16-17: “At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them! But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.”
Paul reflects on his trial, where he stood alone without any human support. Despite this, his response is filled with grace, as he prays that those who abandoned him are not held accountable. This echoes Christ’s own words on the Cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). Paul’s trust in God is unwavering, as he attributes his deliverance to the Lord. The phrase “rescued from the lion’s mouth” likely symbolizes the mortal danger he faced, possibly referring to the Roman authorities or even a literal threat of death. However, Paul credits the Lord for giving him strength, enabling him to continue proclaiming the Gospel.

Teachings and References

This passage is a profound testimony to the power of God’s strength in our lives, especially in moments of abandonment and trial. Paul’s example calls us to trust that even when we feel isolated or unsupported by others, God is with us, empowering us to fulfill our mission. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “God’s providence… leads creatures towards their ultimate end” (CCC 302), and we see this clearly in Paul’s life. He recognized that despite human failings, God’s purpose would be accomplished.

The writings of the Church Fathers also echo this sentiment. Saint Augustine taught that God’s grace sustains us even when we are weak: “God provides the strength; we must act.” Paul’s unwavering confidence in God is a model for us, particularly in times of difficulty.

Reflection

Paul’s journey is a reminder that, even in our darkest moments, God is with us, standing by our side, giving us strength to continue our mission. It’s easy to feel abandoned when we are going through trials, but Paul shows us that our hope should always rest in God, not in the support of others.
How do you handle moments of isolation or abandonment?
How can you draw strength from God, even when others fail you?

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18

The Kingdom’s Glory and God’s Nearness

Psalm 145 is an exquisite hymn of praise that exalts the greatness of God’s eternal kingship. As one of the last psalms attributed to David, it serves as a doxology, praising God for His mighty works, His justice, and His kindness. This psalm reflects on God’s faithfulness to His people and His nearness to those who call upon Him. The psalmist invites all of creation, especially the faithful, to participate in this song of praise, proclaiming the glory of God’s Kingdom. For us today, it’s a reminder that no matter the circumstances, God’s dominion is everlasting, and His presence is always near.

Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹⁰ All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord,
    and all your faithful shall bless you.
¹¹ They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom,
    and tell of your power,
¹² to make known to all people your mighty deeds,
    and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
¹³ Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
    and your dominion endures throughout all generations.
The Lord is faithful in all his words,
    and gracious in all his deeds.

¹⁷ The Lord is just in all his ways,
    and kind in all his doings.
¹⁸ The Lord is near to all who call on him,
    to all who call on him in truth.

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 10: “All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord, and all your faithful shall bless you.”
In this verse, the psalmist invites all of creation to give thanks to God. The “works” of God—everything He has created—testify to His greatness. The faithful, those who follow His commandments and seek His will, are called to “bless” Him, which in this context means to praise and worship God for His abundant goodness. This ties into CCC 293, which teaches that the world was created “for the glory of God.” Our very existence, and the existence of all creation, is a testament to His majesty and goodness.

Verse 11-12: “They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom, and tell of your power, to make known to all people your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.”
Here, the psalmist emphasizes the responsibility of the faithful to proclaim the glory of God’s Kingdom. It’s not enough to experience God’s goodness personally; we are called to share it with others. This resonates with the Church’s call to evangelization, as outlined in CCC 849: “The Church is missionary by her very nature.” Every Christian has a duty to “make known to all people” the mighty deeds of God, spreading the Good News of His Kingdom.

Verse 13: “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations.”
This verse assures us of the eternal nature of God’s Kingdom. Unlike earthly kingdoms, which rise and fall, God’s reign is everlasting. His sovereignty extends beyond time and history, offering us the hope of eternal life in His presence. This reflects the Church’s teaching that God’s Kingdom has come in Christ, but it will be fully realized at the end of time (cf. CCC 541). For the faithful, this is a source of immense comfort, knowing that no matter what happens in the world, God’s dominion endures.

Verse 17-18: “The Lord is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings. The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
The psalmist highlights two key attributes of God: His justice and His kindness. These are not in conflict but are perfectly united in God. His justice ensures that He governs the world with fairness, while His kindness reflects His deep love and compassion for His people. The promise that “the Lord is near to all who call on Him” is one of the most comforting assurances in Scripture. It is echoed in CCC 2569, which reminds us that prayer is the “raising of one’s mind and heart to God.” God is near to those who seek Him sincerely, and this verse invites us to deepen our relationship with Him through prayer.

Teachings and References

The psalm speaks to God’s eternal Kingship, His justice, and His kindness. It also emphasizes the missionary call of the faithful to proclaim the greatness of God’s Kingdom. The Catechism teaches us that God’s Kingdom is not only future-oriented but present among us today through the Church (CCC 763). As we live out our Christian faith, we are participating in this Kingdom and are called to make it known to others.

Saint Gregory the Great once said, “We cannot praise God alone; we must do it in concert with the faithful.” This reflects the communal aspect of our worship and our mission to evangelize. We are not called to journey alone but to walk together as the Body of Christ.

Reflection

This psalm reminds us that God’s Kingdom is already here, and we are part of it. Our mission is to proclaim His goodness and invite others into His Kingdom.
How can you proclaim the greatness of God’s Kingdom in your everyday life?
What are the ways you experience God’s nearness, especially in moments of difficulty?

Holy Gospel – Luke 10:1-9

The Mission of the Seventy

In this passage from The Gospel of Luke, we witness Jesus sending seventy disciples ahead of Him to prepare the way for His ministry. This moment is significant, as it extends the mission beyond the original Twelve Apostles, emphasizing that the call to discipleship and mission is for all believers. The number seventy echoes the seventy elders chosen by Moses in Numbers 11:16, symbolizing the broader mission of God’s people. The urgency and simplicity of this mission remind us that evangelization requires total reliance on God and a heart focused solely on proclaiming His Kingdom. Jesus’ instructions to the seventy disciples reveal both the challenges of mission and the rewards that come with bringing God’s peace and healing to others.

Luke 10:1-9
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

The Mission of the Seventy
10 After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. ² He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. ³ Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. ⁴ Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. ⁵ Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ ⁶ And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. ⁷ Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. ⁸ Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; ⁹ cure the sick who are there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 1-2: “After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’”
Jesus appoints seventy disciples and sends them out “in pairs” to prepare the way for His coming. The pairing of disciples serves a practical purpose—it provides support and accountability, as mission work is often challenging. This also reflects the communal nature of evangelization; we are not meant to proclaim the Gospel alone but in community with others (cf. CCC 849 on the Church’s missionary mandate). The phrase “the harvest is plentiful” refers to the many souls who are ready to hear the Gospel, but Jesus laments the shortage of laborers. This call to “ask the Lord of the harvest” is an invitation for us to pray for more vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and lay ministry, so that the Gospel may reach all people.

Verse 3: “Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves.”
Jesus does not sugarcoat the dangers of the mission. He sends His disciples “like lambs into the midst of wolves,” a powerful image of vulnerability. The disciples will face hostility and opposition, just as Jesus Himself did. This echoes Christ’s teaching that following Him involves carrying our own cross (cf. Matthew 16:24). Yet, despite the dangers, the disciples are called to trust in God’s protection and continue their mission with courage and faith.

Verse 4-5: “Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’”
Jesus instructs His disciples to travel lightly, without carrying extra provisions. This radical detachment from material possessions is a sign of total dependence on God’s providence (cf. CCC 2544 on poverty of spirit). The instruction not to “greet anyone on the road” may seem strange, but it emphasizes the urgency of their mission—there is no time for distractions or delays. Upon entering a house, the disciples are to offer peace, a sign of God’s blessing. This greeting of “peace” is not just a formality but an invitation for the household to enter into communion with God.

Verse 6-9: “And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’”
Jesus emphasizes that the peace offered by the disciples is not conditional; it is given freely, but it can only take root in a receptive heart. If the peace is rejected, it “returns” to the disciple. This teaches us that, while we are called to share God’s love and peace with others, we cannot control how it is received. Jesus also encourages the disciples to accept hospitality and be content with what is offered. This reflects the dignity of laborers in the vineyard of the Lord, who are worthy of their sustenance (cf. CCC 2448 on the dignity of work and workers). Their mission is not only to proclaim the Kingdom of God but also to heal the sick, a sign that the Kingdom is breaking into the world through their ministry.

Teachings and References

This Gospel passage highlights the urgency and simplicity of the mission Jesus entrusts to His disciples. The call to evangelize, heal, and proclaim peace is not just for the ordained but for every baptized Christian. The Catechism teaches that “the Church, in her very nature, is missionary” (CCC 767), and this mission is carried out by the faithful in every walk of life. We are called to bring the peace of Christ to every home and heart we encounter, even in the face of opposition.

The writings of Saint Francis Xavier, a missionary who evangelized in India and Japan, provide a powerful example of living out this Gospel. He once wrote, “Many, many people hereabouts are not becoming Christians for one reason only: there is nobody to make them Christians.” His words echo Jesus’ lament that “the laborers are few.” We are reminded of the critical need for more laborers in the vineyard—both in formal vocations and in everyday evangelization.

Reflection

This passage challenges us to reflect on our own call to mission. Jesus sends us out, just as He sent the seventy disciples, to proclaim the Kingdom of God.
In what ways can you bring God’s peace to the people around you?
Are there areas in your life where you need to trust more in God’s provision and let go of material concerns?

Our Call to Mission

Today’s readings provide us with a powerful message: despite the trials, loneliness, and opposition we may face, God is always near, providing us with the strength to carry out our mission. Like Saint Paul, we are called to trust in God’s presence, even when we feel abandoned. Like the psalmist, we are invited to proclaim God’s Kingdom and His mighty deeds. And like the seventy disciples, we are sent into the world to share the peace, love, and healing of Christ.

These readings remind us that evangelization is not optional—it is at the heart of our Christian life. Whether we are preaching with words, showing love through actions, or offering healing to the broken, we are all called to participate in building God’s Kingdom on earth. The mission of the seventy in the Gospel is our mission, too. Jesus sends us out, vulnerable as lambs among wolves, yet fully supported by His grace and strength. He asks us to depend on His provision, to proclaim peace, and to trust that, even when our efforts seem fruitless, the seeds of the Kingdom are being planted.

As we reflect on these passages, let us ask ourselves: How am I living out my mission to proclaim the Kingdom of God? How can I trust more deeply in God’s provision and bring His peace to others?

Engage with Us!

How have today’s readings touched you? We invite you to share your reflections in the comments and continue this journey of faith together.

Reflection Questions:

• In what areas of your life are you called to trust in God’s strength rather than your own?
• How can you proclaim God’s glory and Kingdom in your daily life?
• How can you bring God’s peace into the lives of those around you?

Let’s support one another on our journey to grow closer to God.

---

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more insights and reflections on living a faith-filled life.