There is No Time to Wait

By Deacon Bill Richer

On this Sunday, the Gospel of Mathew shifts from the ministry of Jesus to the work of our community that He has started. More than any other Gospel, Mathew’s focus is on the work of the Church.  
Recently, a friend asked me to do a graveside service for someone who had died two years earlier. This past week, a past youth ministry student got reconnected with me on social media to provide her with some spiritual direction for her life. These are just a few examples for us on how we can all focus on the work of the Church. 

I believe one of the main messages from this Sunday’s gospel is that there is “No Time to Wait!” There is no time to waste. People need Christ’s good news now. Just as Jesus gathered His disciples and sent them to proclaim His message throughout the world, Jesus calls on us to do the same. 
God’s reign hasn’t fully arrived; nonetheless, there are many people who are in need of us to make it real for them “Now”. People in our families, school, and our church community face problems that worsen by the moment. For them, time is critical. Right now, they need people who bring them God’s message by living like Jesus. 

This week, carry that message with you. Be attentive to those around you who may be struggling—a friend whose relationships are strained, a neighbor burdened by loneliness, or someone facing hunger, hardship, or uncertainty. Keep your eyes and ears open to the needs of others. By responding with compassion and generosity, you become an instrument of God's love and help bring His Kingdom to life in the world around you.

Remember, every member of our church is sent by Jesus to contribute to His mission.