Tuesday September 11, 2007

Col 2:6-15; Ps 145:1b-2, 8-9, 10-11; Lk 6:12-19

In our readings today, they shed light on an important topic on this anniversary of 9/11/2001. IF you read the Gosepl text from Luke we get the list of the first disciples. Who would later become the apostles. So what is the relationship of the disciple to Christ and the apostles? When they were first called, they were only disciples, followers of Christ. A merry group that followed Jesus around and learned from Him. It is only after three years of following him around does apostle come into the picture. For an apostle is someone who leads others. Thus, you could consider Jesus as the High Priest, the teacher, the formator, the counselor, etc... for these selected disciples who he would intrust his church to. Then after His Resurrection, he gave them the task to lead the community.

In this day and age, before we can do anything, or change anything, or start to make a difference, we need to first be a disciple. We need to take the time to pray, build a relationship with Christ and the sacraments, become familiar with what he requires of us as disciples. It is only after a good length of time can we take the step forward and start to lead others. Take for example the deacon prep program for the Diocese of Phoenix, it is five years. The first two or so years is learning and being formed into a solid Christian. The second part is the practical hands on how to and practice of leading before you are ordained to the Order of Deacon. The same is true for a seminarian who wants to be a priest. For me, it is nine years. Nine crucial years to prepare and deepen my relationship with Christ. In the process of discipleship and leading others regardless of lay, ministerial or self, if you take shortcuts you hurt yourself, your relationship to Christ and those that you will serve.
9/11 is a perfect example of a few who do not understand completely their faith following the words of one human being. What if they were formed in their faith fully, what if......