Weekend Mass

Dear Beloved Family of St. Anselm,

Today's Gospel, according to St. Matthew, describes how Jesus began his public ministry as John the Baptist was arrested, and tells us four things regarding this ministry of Jesus: 

I. The CONTEXT of Jesus' Ministry – The relocation of Jesus northward from Judea up to Galilee tells us some important truths. First, it tells us of the hostility of the southern regions to the message of John the Baptist and Jesus. The area in and around Judea, including Jerusalem, was controlled by a religious ruling class (the Sadducees and the Pharisees). These groups detested any ideas that threatened their leadership or challenged the rituals associated with the Temple. Furthermore, the Herodian dynasty was also a threat, especially in the south, where John was arrested. Jesus thus moved on to a more receptive context, where his ministry could bear the greatest fruit. 

II. The CONTENT of his MINISTRY –In his preaching, Jesus is willing to challenge and say, 'Repent!' But he also declares the good news that the Kingdom of heaven is at hand! Accepting Jesus' call requires that we avoid both presumption and despair. It is incorrect to assume that we do not require ongoing healing power from the Lord to overcome our sin. The word "Repent!" is μετανοεῖτε (metanoeite), which means more literally "to come to a new mind, or a new way of thinking." However, we are also told to reject despair, since through the grace and mercy of God, we can come to proper metanoia (repentance) and recognize our need for help. By the Hope that comes with it, we confidently reach out and call God Abba Father! Too many expect the Church only to affirm and "be positive." 

III. The CALL of his Ministry- Jesus, in building his Kingdom, summons men to follow him. He will train them to be the leaders of his Church as Apostles. The Kingdom of God is not only about calling disciples but also about developing leaders to provide order and authority in the Church. Even the most “democratic” of organizations requires structure and leadership. Without these, there is anarchy and a battle of wills. Hence, the Lord calls not only disciples, in the early stages of his public ministry, he also grooms leaders. The Lord is articulate in saying to these apostles, Come Follow me!Notice that his announcement is unambiguous. His appeal to them was personal: 'Come, follow me.' The Lord starts with the familiar to draw them to the less familiar. 

IV. The COMPREHENSIVENESS of his Ministry – Note that all of Galilee was Jesus' mission field, and He covered it comprehensively. And thus, the Church is Catholic and must also address every part of the world, providing a comprehensive vision for life. We may not have the power to simplistically cure every ailment and problem, but we can provide the vision of the Paschal mystery that sheds light and brings spiritual healing to every affliction. (2 Cor 4:10). 

Amen.