Walking with the People of God - Introduction

Walking with the People of God

Steps in Discipleship

This set of reflections based on passages from the Bible (Exodus 18, Numbers 11, Luke 9 & 10) is intended to help us take steps in discipleship in giving direction to the People of God.  The advice of Jethro to Moses which led to the remarkable development of the Spirit of God touching the Elders in assisting Moses is inspiring. The work of the Elders assisted the People of God in moving on to the Promised Land.  In these events we see the importance of delegation and the inspiring recognition of gifts in each person.  The People of God should be a cohesive body which moves forward in the service of God.

The Spirit of God also touched the followers of Christ in preparing the hearts of mankind to receive His Promise of Eternal Life.  We too need direction in moving forward as the Body of Christ, or the People of God.  Christ instructed his followers in a practical way to serve the Kingdom of God. The principles of truth, prayer, cooperation, detachment, service, and purposefulness are evident in the instructions given by the Lord to His disciples and apostles. Our service centers on the preaching of the Kingdom of God and bringing healing into the lives of other people.  Our Lord asked His followers to bring peace to others.

The Second Vatican Council used the term “People of God” as way of speaking about the life of the Church and of our spiritual journey through history. We are indeed walking together as the People of God. We have been called in every age to serve God and help prepare the hearts of humanity to accept the promises of Christ.

Our Baptism and Confirmation allow us to share in the service of the Kingdom of God. Those who are ordained have an even deeper commitment to building up the Body of Christ.  It is a good thing to share responsibility with others, and to recognize the gifts of other people. The Holy Eucharist joins us to Christ and to one another in remembering what He has done for us and what we are called to do. The Good Lord is glorified in our working together and bearing fruit in His Name.
 
Composed by Fr. Bruce Bradley, Pastor
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Plano, Texas
July 26, 2016
 
This is the first of a series that will be appearing over the following weeks.