We are in Mission Month—a time of grace to remember that, through Baptism, we are all sent on mission. This applies not only to those who travel to distant lands: every baptised person is a missionary wherever they live—in their homes, at work and in their local communities.
But there is a question that challenges us: can we evangelise when we are divided?
Before listening to our words, the world looks at our lives. This is why witness is so important: the proclamation of the Gospel becomes credible when our lives support it. A missionary who is divided within or in conflict with his or her brothers and sisters carries the message but does not embody it.
What a great grace it is to be inwardly united and not fragmented. When the heart is in order and, above all, in harmony with the Lord, life becomes beautiful because we live with integrity towards ourselves and others. A reconciled heart carries no resentment and does not hide open wounds: it is a heart free to love, to listen and to reach out to others.
When we live reconciled and in communion with one another, we become credible witnesses, and the Gospel finds its communicative strength. Jesus Himself asked the Father for this: “That they may all be one … so that the world may believe” (Jn 17:21). Unity among the disciples is the first proclamation.
By contrast, where there is division, we are unable to reach the heart of the other person. More seriously still, the Word of the Lord finds no room amid rivalry, resentment or indifference. The seed cannot germinate in hardened soil.
This month, let us go out. First of all, let us leave behind our wounds and resentments so that we may be reconciled. Then let us go out to meet others with the joy of those who have been forgiven and cannot remain silent about what they have received. Let us pray for the missionaries who give their lives in the most remote corners of the world, and ask to become missionaries ourselves in the places where we live each day.
Lord, give us hearts that are reconciled and eager for communion, so that, when others see us, they may encounter You. Send us, and make us witnesses to Your peace. Amen.
“Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel” (Mk 16:15).
