As Christ was anointed Priest, Prophet, and King, so may you live always as member of his body, sharing everlasting life.

When we were baptised we were incorporated into the life of Christ and anointed to be a prophet and live a life that reflects Christ. It is more than
predicting the future, it is about the current reality and how we live according to the Lord, rather than following the popular way of the world or conforming to the culture of the day.

Jesus the Word of God who became Incarnate showed how to be human and yet be faithful to God’s love. Jesus did not manipulate, demand, force or threaten people. On the other hand he showed compassion, accepted people and forgave their weaknesses, he healed and restored them to life and community. The stand that Jesus took landed him most of the time on the wrong side of the religious leaders of his time. Jesus was not only a good man caring for the weak, but also showed us that evil in the world needs to be confronted. As Christians we are sent to be prophets: our words, our lifestyle and our actions are meant to reflect the kingdom of God and we are called to be agents for change.
It is not easy to be a prophet, especially among our family and relations, work colleagues, parish, neighbours, country and Church. It is a very unpopular vocation: we know in scripture of those who were called or sent to be a prophet finding all kinds of excuses not to take on this ministry or spokesperson for God! It can be lonely, alienating, or make us an outcast and can definitely drain our energy and overwhelm us at times. Often bitterness can creep in and turn us into an angry person, or disillusionment makes us abandon our mission all together. Yet faithfulness brings freedom, liberation and salvation. Not to forget sacrifice! In Lent the Stations of the Cross are a good reminder of the many who still suffer and need redemption not just devotion.

When I see many men and women of faith doing so much for the Church and people, it makes me feel proud of our faith. I feel sad when I read or hear that one of these agents of the gospel has been hurt by their community or let down by the Church, or is unappreciated by the country for their sacrifice. Whether it is for a particular cause, or for a period or a lifelong passion, we are part of Jesus the Prophet.
As Christians what are we doing for our Aboriginal brothers and sisters?

READINGS FOR THIS WEEK

14th SUNDAY IN
ORDINARY TIME
Ezek 2:2-5
The people are rebellious; they shall know there will be a prophet in their midst.
2 Cor 12:7-10
I will glory in my infirmities so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Mk 6:1-6
A prophet is despised only in his own country.

MISSION STATEMENT
We, the people of St Francis Xavier’s & St Clare’s parishes, seek to live Christ-centred lives, celebrating God’s presence & our faith values through worship, outreach, service, justice & hospitality.

THIS WEEK

This week, try to become aware of those things which hinder your faith.
Work actively in overcoming them.

Read the