The Gospel Free of Charge

Friday of the Twenty-third a Week in Ordinary Time

(Click Here for Readings)

1 Corinthians 9:16-19; 22B-27

Brothers and sisters: If I preach the Gospel, this is no reason for me to boast, for an obligation has been imposed on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it! If I do so willingly, I have a recompense, but if unwillingly, then I have been entrusted with a stewardship. What then is my recompense? That, when I preach, I offer the Gospel free of charge so as not to make full use of my right in the Gospel.

What if Saint Dominic and Saint Paul met in person? They both had a zeal for preaching the Truth of the Gospel, offering it "free of charge" to anyone who'd listen and come to believe.  What would the exchange be like?  Would Dominic request tips from Paul on how to preach more effectively?  Would they share the Eucharist together?  

Many Catholics think that "preaching" is the exclusive responsibility of ordained pastors, priests, and deacons. They don't understand that as baptized Christians we are all called to "preach" the good news through every day actions.  We may not stand in front of a crowd delivering a Sunday homily, but we can preach in other ways.  Minister to the needy; volunteer in liturgical ministry; speak on behalf of the protection of the unborn and the illegal immigrant; or pray for the welfare of others as we go about our ordinary lives. We never know when we may encounter a person who does not know Christ.  If we are not there to minister, to preach by our example, then we may lose a soul.

In the classic Parker Brothers board game "Monopoly,"  we move our metal trinkets around a board buying property.  We roll the dice .  Oh no....our marker lands on "Go to Jail".  Time to spend some fake money to bail ourselves out.  However, if we have the coveted "Get Out of Jail free" card we're set.  We are back in the game without a penny out of our fake wallets.

Reading and meditating on the gospels, as well as sharing the good news with others, is like receiving a "Get Out of Jail Free" card.  Instantly, we receive hope that God will help us better handle our daily crosses and tribulations.  We are not left alone to rot in our own self-made prisons shackled to a cinder blocked wall!   We have a source of wisdom and guidance through stories of old; stories of  healing, love, sacrifice, and forgiveness.  We can relate to these stories.  Unfortunately, humanity hasn't really changed much since biblical times.  

The next time we feel ill at ease, open up the Gospels and read a few passages. Meditate on the words and meaning.  Reflect on how the message can be adapted to every day life and the life of others.  Don't be afraid to preach the good news to others!

-J.