Jesus is the one the Father has sent to world to defend the poor.  To deliver the lives of the poor from the power of the wicked is, of course, part of such a mission. 

Jeremiah’s mission was tough.  But the prophet did not give it up, nor did he let the terror on all sides defeat him.  For the Lord, like a strong defender, was with him.  The Lord did not fail to deliver the poor from the power of evil folks.

The mission of those whom Jesus has gathered is tough, too.  Hence, it brings them fear.  But the one who has called and sent them tells them not to fear.  They should not fear that they may fail as they share in the hard work of announcing the Good News; God’s power will deliver them from such fear.  Besides, the Word, like a seed, under cover now and hidden, will show up and will be known one day.  There are no obstacles that can hinder its growth.

But this does not mean that those who trust Providence flee from responsibility.  They just stay peaceful.  They still must go about to announce the Good News by words and by works (SV.EN XII:77-78).  That is, they should help the poor in all ways and get others to help them also.  Jesus’ disciples are even to use the most effective means to broadcast what he teaches them. 

And the Teacher says that it is not humans we should fear but God.  For humans are not almighty but God is.

But God is not like those of the world who think they are almighty.  These are despots and tyrants.  So, common and ordinary folks like us look for one to deliver us from them.  On the other hand, we can count on God, our Father, to protect us and be tenderly kind to us.

Lord Jesus, by you overflowing grace, deliver us from our fears.  Grant us to trust, like you, in our Father’s protection.  We shall thus get to suffer with you and for you, and serve the poor, even to the point of giving up our bodies and shedding our blood.

21 June 2026
12th Sunday in O.T. (A)
Jer 20, 10-13; Rom 5, 12-15; Mt 10, 26-33