During this long stretch of Ordinary Time (summer in the Northern hemisphere), the focus is on the preaching of Jesus on the Kingdom of God, and also on his miracles that manifest the power of God. These stories (prayed as part of the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary) unfold within the context of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem toward his passion, death and resurrection.
Today’s Gospel from Luke is the story of the sending of the seventy-two disciples to prepare for his coming. Keep in mind that 72 is a symbolic number from Genesis 10 that represents the nations of the world.
At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers to his harvest… Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ . . . Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God is at hand for you.’”
The Kingdom of God is revealed in the witness of the disciples and the healing power of Christ.
The First Reading is from Isaiah 66 – later or Deutero-Isaiah who preached to give his people hope in their time of Babylonian captivity. This particular chapter utilizes the feminine imagery of a mother who nurses her newborn to good health.
For thus says the Lord: Lo, I will spread prosperity over Jerusalem like a river, and the wealth of the nations like an overflowing torrent. As nurslings, you shall be carried in her arms and fondled in her lap. As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you. . . When you see this, your heart shall rejoice. . . The Lord’s power shall be known to his servants.
The Lord’s power is manifested as the life-giving nourishment of a nursing mother. What an extraordinary and reassuring image!
And in the Second Reading from the conclusion of Saint Paul’s Letter to the Galatians, the apostle proclaims:
May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. . . From now on, let no one make troubles for me, for I bear the marks of Jesus on my body.
Thus, the Lord’s power is ironically manifested in his suffering and death. The seventy-two disciples are preparing his way, and they will soon witness Jesus’ saving death upon the Cross. The healings that they perform in Christ’s name only make sense within the context of his holy and glorious wounds – the “marks of Jesus” of which Saint Paul speaks, imprinted on those of us who dare to be disciples.
Healing, nourishment, and suffering. Within this unlikely combination, the power of God’s kingdom is manifested to the world.
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Entrance Antiphon Your Merciful Love, O Lord (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #139
This antiphon text from Psalm 48 underscores the teaching from today’s readings: from our house of worship (the temple) and onward to the ends of the earth, we are witnesses to God’s love and justice for all.
Entrance Chant Our God Is Here (Chris Muglia)
Spirit & Song #226; Never Too Young #29; Breaking Bread #301
Chris Muglia’s powerful song celebrates the healing presence of God in our midst.
Responsorial Psalm Let All the Earth Cry Out to God with Joy (Sarah Hart)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 264
Sarah’s verbatim psalm setting expresses the joy of ministry.
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia: Mass of Restoration (Josh Blakesley and Leland G. “Grae” McCullough)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 266
Mass of Restoration’s prayerful sheen presents the Gospel verse effectively.
Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts Here I Am, Lord (Dan Schute)
Spirit & Song #250; Never Too Young #264; Breaking Bread #393
During the summer months, it’s good to fall back on your community’s favorite songs. “Here I Am, Lord” is iconic and appropriate for today’s readings on evangelization.
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Communion Antiphon Come to Me, All Who Labor and Are Burdened [Option 2] (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #141
Antiphon Option 2 offers respite to those whose ministry calls them to expend their energy on a virtually non-stop basis.
Communion Chant Come, All You Thirsty (Kathleen Basi)
Breaking Bread #303
Kathleen’s new song is catching on and being discovered by grateful communities. Her reassuring lyrics call us to rest and be nourished by the Lord.
Sending Forth Fish with Me (Ken Canedo)
Spirit & Song #211; Never Too Young #128
A lively song of discipleship and ministry. Young people love singing it.
Liturgy Blog is a weekly liturgy planning resource for musicians, liturgists, homilists, youth groups, faith sharing groups, and all who look to the liturgical readings for inspiration and nourishment. Join Ken Canedo as he breaks open the Scripture and suggests tracks from the Spirit & Song contemporary repertoire.
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