Mission Sunday
Introduction
- The story of the reception of Jesus in Heaven - A story was told about the grand welcome ceremony that was held when Jesus ascended into heaven. Immediately after the rite, a worried angel Gabriel approached Jesus to ask this question- “I know that only very few in Palestine are aware of the great work of human salvation you have accomplished through your suffering, death and resurrection. But the whole world should know and appreciate it and become your disciples, acknowledging you as their Lord and Savior. What is your plan of action?” Jesus answered, “I have told all my apostles to tell other people about me and preach my message through their lives. That’s all.” Not satisfied with the answer, the angel continued, “Suppose they don’t do that. What’s your Plan B?” Jesus replied, “I have no other plan; I am counting on them.” (S.D. Gordon)
- If somebody ask Jesus the same question/doubt, Jesus would point to us, say our names and say, they are the ones who are interested with the mission and “I am counting on them”
- The entire Universal Church has been observing the so-called ‘World Mission Sunday’ every 3rd Sunday of October since it was decreed by Pope Pius XI in 1926.
Content
I. Missio Dei (Mission of God)
o Mission comes from Triune God
o Triune God is the example of perfect love, perfect knowledge and perfect Unity
o The Love of Trinity is not exclusive but inclusive in nature. We are called to participate in that love.
II. Missio Ecclesiae (Mission of the church)
o Church exists for the mission.
o The mission for the Church is like the engine for a car.
o Church participate the Triune mission – to spread the love of God to the world.
o It should be the channel of God’s Love
III. Missio Christiani (Mission of a Christian).
o Every Christian participates in the Love of God through Church.
o Some are specially called to be sent to faraway places, but most of us are called to be a missionary in our own places.
Conclusion
- Therefore our duties are of three;
1. Participate in the love of God that is shown through Jesus Christ – Forgiving love.
2. Share and defend our faith among others.
3. Help the missionary efforts materially and spiritually
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