Preach the riches of Christ

"To me, the very least of all the holy ones, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the inscrutable riches of Christ." Eph 3:8

Realizing what a privilege it is to be a disciple is an important foundational step for believers. Knowing that Christ has called as individuals and communities to follow him and proclaim his word in action is, as Paul says, a great grace. But it also daunting. When we realize how flawed we are, there can be a hesitancy in accepting the call to discipleship. We don't mind being quiet, "good catholics" who go to church each Sunday, but accepting a public role in the church is intimidating.

Nevertheless, the challenge to live the gospel in season and out is the call all the baptized have, and unless we promote it and live it, the next generation of Catholics will not have mentors or shoulders to stand on. For most of us, the only way to live our call is, like Paul, to root ourselves in "the inscrutable riches" of Christ. When we remember that we are not promoting ourselves, nor denying our own sinfulness, the call to discipleship becomes possible.

Christ will help us, even if we are the least of all believers, to put aside our reluctance and, with his grace and strength, go into the whole world with hearts overflowing with hope, joy and gratitude.  The humility to live as disciples despite our faults will be a great sign to all that Christ is the ground of our lives.

Today, rely on Christ for everything.

How do you experience the call to discipleship?