We have been so blessed with the gift of faith. To know God’s saving love and mercy is an immeasurable gift worth more than all the treasures of the world. And unlike a worldly treasure, this one is not diminished when it is shared with others. Rather, it multiplies and becomes all the more radiant.
The gift of faith originates in the loving heart of our heavenly Father and is made present to us through the people He has placed in our lives. If we examine our own faith life, we can identify the people that introduced us to faith and helped us to grow in our relationship with God. Whether it is a family member, a teacher, a priest, or even the writings of the saints, God has appointed others to bring His love to us.
In the Gospel last Sunday, Jesus says, “the harvest is abundant but the laborers are few…” (Lk 10:2). He is saying that there are many hearts that desire to know His love and salvation, but there is no one to share it with them. Every Christian is called to share the treasure of faith. St. Peter says, “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope…” (1Pt 3:15). However, this can be daunting. When someone challenges our faith or asks us why we believe what we do, we can freeze up.
To the lack of laborers, Jesus responds with prayer and the commissioning of 72 disciples. He prohibits them from taking provisions and prepares them for a hostile reception. All the while, He expects them to do extraordinary things, to “cure the sick” and to proclaim “the kingdom of God.” (LK 10:9). As terrifying as this sounds, “The 72 returned rejoicing, and said, ‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name.’” (Lk 10:17). It is noteworthy that despite the hardships, they were filled with joy. They also had no confusion about why they were successful: His name.
These disciples were formed for this mission by following Jesus. They were immersed in His words and actions. They observed the way that He spoke and cared for others. Likewise, Jesus forms us in the community of His Church.
One such opportunity is the Diocesan Ministry Formation Program. This two-year formation program seeks to help you grow in your relationship with God, immerse you in Scripture, help you explore the depths of our faith, and gain the skills necessary to share that faith. While the program is designed to prepare you to serve your parish, it equally equips you to accompany your children, spouse, and friends in their faith journey.
We have participants that range from young adults to retired people. Regardless of age or stage of life, Jesus is calling you to proclaim the Gospel to those only you can reach. As Jesus sent people into your life, to whom is He sending you? Like the 72, when we trust in God, we can do the impossible because of His name.
To enrich your own faith life and answer Jesus’ call, I encourage you to prayerfully consider the Ministry Formation Program. Sessions meet two to three times a month with English sessions offered in Crystal Lake, Dixon, Geneva, or Rockford. Spanish sessions are offered in Aurora, Crystal Lake, or Rockford. Orientation is August 16. For more information, testimonial videos, or to register, visit our website: ceorockford.org/ministry-formationprogram/ or give us a call at 815-399-4300.
