January 26, 2026 // Memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus, Bishops
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Luke 10:1-9
Reflect on the Word //
I had stopped in various Catholic churches before, but this time I was determined to stay for the entire Mass. As a Jewish believer in Jesus, to me the Mass was both intriguing and foreign. Such as when the priest pronounced, “Go forth, the Mass is ended,” and everyone responded, “Thanks be to God.” I thought Catholics were thankful that the Mass was over and the priest had dismissed them! Later, as I learned the meaning of the closing words in Latin, "Ite, missa est," I understood that the faithful are sent from the Mass, on mission to spread the Gospel and act as God's presence in the world.
In today’s Gospel we see Jesus, the master of the harvest, sending His disciples to gather others into His kingdom. His words aren’t sugarcoated with promises of welcoming crowds, comfortable lodgings, or sumptuous feasts. Instead, they will go into hostile territory, like defenseless lambs among wolves. Jesus’ instructions are clear and direct, and His urgent mission must not be marked by delays, distractions, or encumbrances. They must travel light, trust in God’s providence for all their needs, and be ready to do His works.
We don’t hear how these disciples responded to their assignment. What were their facial expressions and body language? Did Jesus leave time for Q & A? They were most likely honored and excited to represent their master. Yet perhaps they also felt afraid and unprepared to venture away from the comfort of Jesus’ presence, into unfavorable conditions and possible rejection. They weren’t professionally trained in ministry; they were devoted followers of the Messiah, willing to sacrifice comfort, reputation, security, and even their own lives.
It can be easy for us to want to stay put, comfortable and content, nourished by the Eucharist and our Catholic community. But at the end of each Mass, Jesus also sends us out to bring the Good News to all—even those who may be hostile or indifferent. Thanks be to God that we have been called, sent, and equipped to take up our mission to bring God’s love to a world that so desperately needs it!
Relate to the Lord // What would it look like for you to live on mission right where you are?
Debra Herbeck is a Jewish convert to the Church who serves extensively in youth and women’s ministry. She directs Pine Hills Girls Camp (for 34 years), and is the Founder and Director of Be Love Revolution, a ministry for high school girls. Find her books here. She and her husband have four children and eight grandchildren. She is the author of Blessed Conversations: Misericordia. Find out more about her here.
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