A New Creation

Readings for Sunday, July 3 — 14th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Isaiah 66:10-14C; Psalm 66:1-7, 16, 20; Galatians 6:14-18; Luke 10:1-12,17-20

Suggested Reflection Questions:

  • As Catholic Christians, our tradition is filled with powerful images of God the Father. Today’s reading from the Prophet Isaiah includes an image of God as a comforting mother. How can this image enrich our understanding of God?

  • In his letter to the Galatians, Paul writes about the Christian as a “new creation.” A follower of Jesus is no longer a Jew or Gentile, but a new creation. A follower of Jesus is no longer entangled by “the world,” but is crucified to the world. What is Paul saying about what it means to be a Christian?

  • Jesus sends 34 pairs of his followers ahead of him to every place he intends to visit. They are sent without resources and will be dependent on the kindness of those they encounter. The pairs will heal the sick, cast out demons, and proclaim that the Kingdom of God is at hand. How does the Church continue to live out this mission every day? What does Jesus warn these “laborers” about? How do these warnings apply to us?