16th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 20th July/21st July 2024

Dear Parishioners

The salvation of the human person is so crucially important to our Lord Jesus Christ. This agenda is always at the centre of his message and ministry. He does not only go after that which dehumanises the body of the human person but also that which tries to destroy the quiddity of the human person created in the image and likeness of God. The mission of the Apostles as collaborators of our Lord revolves around this same theme. 

At the end of the disciples’ first missionary work, it was time for them to have some rest and share their apostolic work experience with the one who sent them out. Unfortunately, people were still coming looking for them with their problems that it became very difficult for them to have their meals and rest. The Lord knows the importance of people taking care of their health for them to be able to function better in the ministry hence he came up with the idea, “You must come away to some lonely place all by yourselves and rest for a while” (Mark 6:30).

Talking of a deserted place our Lord meant a lonely place or a quiet place where he could listen to and speak with his Apostles. His decision affirms the importance of rest or renewal which is a very important aspect of self-care especially at the end of a busy day’s work. Yes, they needed some rest but the salvation of the human person takes precedence over any other needs. 

As soon as Jesus and his Apostles stepped ashore, he saw a large crowd; “and he took pity on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd and he set himself to teach them at some length,” (Mark 6:34). The Lord knows deep down his heart what terrible thing it is not having any direction or where to anchor one’s life. He understands the plight of the people hence as a good Shepherd he shelved their rest and went ahead to minister to this people. Self-care is very important but calls that lead to the salvation of the human person comes first. 

Fr Vincent Nnatuanya CSSp