Sunday’s Reflection: In this season after Pentecost, we hear stories of Jesus’ ministry in the world and our call to engage in that mission. As we continue the journey with Jesus and the Disciples, we first get a lesson about what is clean and unclean. Jesus’ words are important for us all to remember – that our words come from our heart and what comes from our mouths speaks of who we are and our intentions. Following this parable, Jesus encounters a woman from Tyre and Sidon who had somehow heard of his teaching and healing. She comes to him, speaking words from her heart, showing Jesus that she truly believes even though she is not from Israel. He heals her because of her deep faith.

In this story, Jesus was reminding the people around them that words come from our heart, from our soul. These are the things that tell others about who we are and what is important to us. Our words can tell people of love and kindness and Jesus’ power, or they can be mean and rude and hurtful.  

During the week, make a list of all the words that come from our hearts that tell us about who Jesus is.

Saint Bartholomew the Apostle:  Bartholomew is known to us only because his name is listed among the twelve apostles in the Gospels according to Matthew, Mark, and Luke. His name means “son of Tolmai,” and he is sometimes identified with Nathanael, a disciple who appears at the beginning of the Fourth Gospel. According to John, Nathanael learned about Jesus of Nazareth from his friend Philip and gave the skeptical response, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Nevertheless, he went along with his friend, and when Jesus saw him he said, “Here is an Israelite worthy of the name; there is nothing false in him.” 

Prayer: Loving God, help us to not be afraid as we encounter you in unexpected places in the world. Guide our ears, eyes, mouth, hands, and feet that we may engage in your mission in the world. Amen.