The Desert leads to Mission
In Mark’s Gospel as soon as Jesus emerges from the desert he embarks on his mission of preaching the good news of the kingdom to the people in the towns and villages of Galilee. Experiences in the desert have historically led individuals to profound spiritual insights and often catalyzed their missions or ministries.
Moses spent 40 years in the wilderness before he received his calling from God to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Saint Francis's experiences of solitude and communion with nature in the Umbrian wilderness shaped his vision of radical discipleship and inspired the founding of the Franciscan Order. My own wilderness experience of deep personal loss clarified my purpose, at this stage of my life, and led me to my diaconate ministry.
The desert serves as a crucible for spiritual transformation and discernment of God's will, ultimately leading us to a clearer sense of mission or purpose in ministry. The challenges and solitude of desert experiences strip away distractions and allow us to draw closer to God, discern our calling, as we embark on our mission with renewed faith and determination.
And mission is not just for the bold and famous but also for us everyday people. Mission varies greatly depending on our individual interests, talents, and circumstances. Mission can mean embarking on:
Acts of Kindness and Compassion: Engage in small acts of kindness and compassion in your everyday life. This could involve helping a neighbor, volunteering, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need.
Church Service: Get involved in church ministries such - catechesis, social justice, RCIA, Eucharistic Minister, Lector and so many others. I suggest for those home bound - what about a telephone ministry - calling others and giving words of comfort and care. Becoming an affiliate evangelizer with me - sharing my daily posts and gathering a small group of friends to discuss online. I know of two friends who do this!!!
Mentoring and Tutoring: Share your knowledge and skills with others by mentoring or tutoring students, especially those who may be struggling academically or could benefit from your guidance and support. What about mentoring a new employee at work, giving genuine guidance to help them onboard.
Caring for Vulnerable Populations: Support vulnerable persons such as the elderly, migrants, or individuals experiencing homelessness by volunteering and providing companionship.
The mission that everday people like us can embark on is one that aligns with our values, interests, and abilities, and that contributes positively to the well-being of others and the community. By making a difference in small ways, we can collectively create a more compassionate, just, and sustainable world.