My beloved brothers and sisters,
Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ!
This Sunday’s Scripture readings invite us to reflect on God’s abundant love and our call to grow together as members of His Kingdom. They reminds us that God does not merely call us to believe in Him; He calls us into a relationship with Him and into a community with one another.
In the First Reading (Exodus 19:1-6a), God speaks tenderly to the Israelites after rescuing them from slavery. Before giving them His commandments, He reminds them that He carried them “on eagle’s wings” and brought them to Himself. This powerful image reveals that God’s grace always comes first. His love is not earned but freely given. He chooses His people to be His treasured possession and a holy nation. Through Baptism, we share in that same calling today.
St. Paul, in Romans 5:6-11, deepens this message by reminding us that Christ died for us while we were still sinners. God’s love reaches us not because we are perfect, but because He is merciful. The Cross is the greatest sign of that mercy. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are reconciled with God and invited into a life of hope, joy, and peace. Every Eucharist reminds us of this saving love and strengthens us to live as faithful disciples. In the Gospel (Matthew 9:36–10:8), Jesus looks upon the crowds with compassion. He sees people who are searching, struggling, and longing for guidance. His response is not judgment but mercy. He then sends His disciples to continue His mission of healing and proclaiming the Good News. Today, that mission belongs to all of us. Through our words, actions, and daily witness, we become instruments of Christ’s compassion in the world.
As our parish family gathers for our annual Parish Picnic, we have a beautiful opportunity to live out these readings. Sharing food, conversation, laughter, and fellowship reflects the unity of the Body of Christ. It reminds us that faith is not lived in isolation but in community. Just as God gathered Israel, reconciled us through Christ, and sent the apostles on mission, He gathers us together to strengthen our bonds of faith and friendship.
May this joyful gathering renew our commitment to welcome others, serve one another generously, and continue building God’s Kingdom in our parishes and beyond. Amen. God loves you and blesses you & your families! ~ Fr. Neil