Jesus summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority. 

Do you remember when you first handed the car keys to a son or daughter and said,  “Here you go; I’ve taught you all I can.   Now it’s your turn.”   Both you and your child probably felt a little nervous.

In Scripture, Jesus “turns the wheel” over to his apostles for the first time as he sends them out to preach and heal.   Up to this point, the Twelve had accompanied Jesus and watched closely as he performed miracles.   But he was with them, and he was the one doing the work.   But to now go out without him to work miracles themselves?   Imagine their anxiety!

But more than this, imagine Jesus’ confidence.   He does give them some specific instructions, of course, but they are still on their own.   He is convinced they are ready or, at least, ready enough.   He knows that they will figure things out as they go.   Still, Jesus doesn’t send them empty handed.   He “gave them authority” to act in his name.

This is exactly what Jesus does for us.   He has given us a share in his authority to pray for the sick, to do battle with the evil one, and to share the good news.   We receive this authority through our baptism, and now God is asking us to take hold of this wonderful gift and learn how to use it.

Your mission might look different from the apostles’ mission, but you can still make a difference.   When you pray for a family member who is sick—or even better, when you offer to pray with that person—you can pray in confidence and trust because of the authority Jesus has given you.   When you make the Sign of the Cross on your children’s foreheads before they leave for school, you are imparting God’s protection and blessing to them.   You can sprinkle holy water in your home, pray over your sleeping teenagers, and resist your own temptations—all with the authority of Christ.

Jesus has given you a share in his authority.   He has called you by name and empowered you with his Spirit.   Like the young person first sitting behind the steering wheel, you have much to learn.   But don’t let that keep you from trying!

word among us