REFLECTION FOR TODAY
September 22, 2021
By Fr. Andrew Ibegbulem, OSA
Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Lk. 9:1-2
As Jesus moved toward Jerusalem, He brought his mission to Galilee to a close by sending the disciples with authority to proclaim the message of the kingdom and heal the sick. This was his first time of sending them out on a mission. in this mission, Jesus had commissioned the to do three thigs: to cast out demons, heal the sick and proclaim the Kingdom of God. Were they ready now for this mission? Were they fully prepared and qualified for the mission?
In sending them on this mission, Jesus was preparing them for their ultimate mission, which will come at the time of Pentecost, after His death, resurrection, and Ascension into Heaven. Even as they were sent, Jesus remained at the center of this mission. They may not have been fully prepared, ready, or qualified, but their individual personal relationship with Jesus made the difference.
Like the twelve, we are called to combat the devil and his demons. They are fallen angels who retain their natural powers, and they use those natural powers to try to deceive us, oppress us and, in some cases, even possess us. But demons are powerless in the face of God, and God gives us spiritual authority over them. And though there are some who are given the unique ministry of exorcism within the Church, all of us do have spiritual authority over demons, especially over their natural spiritual attacks of temptations.
Before sending them out on this mission, Jesus gave them power and authority over demons and to cure diseases. Everything came from Jesus. The twelve were not schooled in theology or in Spirituality. They even did not have enough healing experience. They may even appear to be frighten and lacking in faith. Yet Jesus gave them power and authority over both physical and spiritual realities.
The disciples did not volunteer for this mission, they were sent. The same with us we are all called and sent on the same mission. The mission to proclaim a simple and uncomplicated gospel of the kingdom of God, to heal the physically and spiritually wounded and to love unconditionally. We do not go with our abilities or power but simply in the name and authority of Jesus.
Reflect, today, upon the fact that our Lord wants to minister to you in this threefold way. If you can work to overcome the obstacles, put in your path by these demons, then you are in a good position to share in the other two missions given to the Apostles. You will be able to experience mental, emotional, and spiritual healing in your life, and you will be able to allow the Kingdom of God to grow strong and powerful within your own soul. From there, you will be sent on a mission by our Lord to bring these graces to others in need.
Lord, You have authority over evil, the power to heal and offer all the gifts of eternal salvation. Help me to be open to the ways that You desire to come to me. Please free me from the attacks of the evil one, bring healing and hope, and bring forth the abundance of Your glorious Kingdom in my life. Jesus, I trust in You.