Tuesday 18 October

ST LUKE, EVANGELIST

2 Timothy 4:10-17B; Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18; Luke 10:1-9

Sending the seventy-two

Jesus has earlier sent out the Twelve. This time he sends 72 - possibly reflecting the number of elders chosen by Moses or the number of nations listed in Genesis. Whatever it means, Jesus’ outreach is extending, and he is entrusting it to others. There is a premonition of hostility. They go as “lambs among wolves”, depending on the people and expecting rejection in places. Rejection happened to Jesus. The 72, must also expect it. When the Good News is honestly proclaimed, rejection is no reason for discouragement.