Encounter and Courage: The Keys to Building the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth

This Sunday’s readings remind us what to do as we proclaim the kingdom of God. Between the gospel for the 11th Sunday and that of the 12th (This Sunday), there was a passage omitted. In it, Jesus warns his commissioned apostles of what is to come such as his persecution and theirs.

One line that stands out is the closing verses of the gospel, which reads, “Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father. But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father." Christ is telling us that we must proclaim God to others. This is an important step in our faith sharing and even being his apostle.

In today’s day and age, it is easy to be a part of the keyboard battle on social media, yet what our culture is lacking is face-to-face. Even Pope Francis has challenged every Catholic to engage with people where they are. Some may think that it is on social media. Not quite. Instead, we must leave our comfort zone and engage people in person.

It doesn’t entail a theological debate. It can be inviting someone to an event that may interest them.

The main goal of our faith journey is to never be discouraged. Be not afraid. We must save one soul at a time. It takes a personal encounter to achieve that feat. Now, with so much technological apparatus, the need for in-person meetings is needed more than ever. Isolation is a sign of fear. Satan wants us to be scared to step out into the public eye. He wants to devour both body and soul when we die.

Authentic Catholics, are you ready to display steadfast courage amid adverse fire from those who attack the Catholic faith? Are you ready to not be afraid?

A courageous faith will move the world. Take the first step to encounter people where they are.