Gospel Reflection for the Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B.
By The Benedictine Community
Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation. (Psalm 84)
Today's gospel follows on from last week's gospel when we learned of Jesus' disappointing reception in his own hometown. This week he summons and sends the Twelve on mission to preach repentance, cast out unclean spirits and cure the sick. But the lesson is stark; they have been warned from Jesus' own experience that as the Master was treated, so might his followers be. (Mark's gospel is called the gospel of discipleship.)
Another inspiring lesson is contained in the contrast between the rich spiritual gifts Jesus gives them and the material poverty he commands.
And what a lesson for all Jesus' disciples down through the ages. Amid this world's turmoil and materialism, seek the spiritual gifts God wishes to give. Trust is the foundational gift - the rest follow.