July 14, 2024

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCBDaily Bible Readings, Podcast Audio and Videos and Prayers brought to you by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Fifteenthth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick—no food, no sack, no money in their belts.”

Here are some resources to prepare for this Sunday, July 14, 2024

John Kavanaugh, SJ

The author reflects on their experiences of traveling to India and Africa, initially burdened by carrying numerous books and items. Inspired by a Jesuit missionary's simplicity and effectiveness, the author began to shed these burdens, finding relief and more time to engage with life. The author contrasts their own meticulous packing with the simplicity instructed by Jesus in the Gospel of Mark, where disciples were sent with minimal possessions. The piece suggests that modern Christians, including leaders, often carry too much physical and ideological baggage, hindering their true discipleship. The author concludes that living with less ambiguity and fewer attachments can lead to a more authentic and effective Christian life, focusing on serving Christ rather than personal gains.