Genesis 41:55-57; 42:5-7,17-24;Psalm 33:2-3,10-11,18-19;Matthew 10:1-7
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“Do not go into pagan territory.” (Matthew 10:5)
It shouldn’t surprise us that Jesus told his apostles to go on their first preaching assignment only to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:5-6). Although Jesus came for all humankind, he held a deep love for Israel—for his own people—because they were God’s chosen ones. He knew that every event in Israel’s history led up to his coming, and he wanted to fulfill all God’s promises to them.
But Jesus likely had another reason for restricting the apostles to their own people at first. What better way to learn the basics of evangelization than to start with their brothers and sisters in faith? They had grown up with the same rituals and traditions, so they knew where to start. It was probably a good thing that they didn’t have to deal right away with the complexities of pagan religions and philosophies. They could concentrate on the basics of getting out the gospel.
The apostles had to start somewhere, and so do we. And the best place to begin is at our own doorstep, within our families and communities—with the people we already know. As Paul reminds us, God wants us to do good to everyone—“ especially to those who belong to the family of the faith” (Galatians 6:10). The mission to those in our midst is just as important as missionary work thousands of miles away. And in some ways, it’s even more important. If we don’t bring the gospel into our homes, who will? If our neighbor doesn’t discover Christ in us, where will he or she find him?
In a sense, it’s easier to talk to strangers about the gospel because your family and friends know you well enough to see your own shortcomings. But don’t let that discourage you. You may not have the most persuasive words. You may not give the most consistent witness, either. But you don’t need to be perfect. You just have to show yourself as a fellow traveler who has found a much better road map to follow. And that’s something anyone can do. So today, look for the openings the Spirit will give, and simply share what’s in your heart.
“Jesus, help me to see the opportunities for evangelization that are right in front of me. Give me the grace I need to share your love with those closest to me.” `wau
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