We are His People
“I will count you a kingdom of priests, a consecrated nation.” Exodus 19:6
Through our baptism, each and every one of us is a priest of Christ. The Catechism says: “The whole community of believers is ... priestly. The faithful exercise their baptismal priesthood through their participation, each according to his own vocation, in Christ’s mission as priest, prophet, and King.” CCC 1546
What does this look like?
Lumen Gentium, one of the key documents that came out of Vatican II, makes this vision clear: “The ministerial priest, by the sacred power he enjoys, teaches and rules the priestly people; acting in the person of Christ, he makes present the Eucharistic sacrifice, and offers it to God in the name of all the people. But the faithful, in virtue of their royal priesthood, join in the offering of the Eucharist. They likewise exercise that priesthood in receiving the sacraments, in prayer and thanksgiving, in the witness of a holy life, and by self-denial and active charity.” LG 10
This means we go forth and live as Christ taught us, in full knowledge that we are part of something considerably bigger than ourselves, and that our role in the priesthood of Christ is vital and sacred.
The idea may seem daunting and beyond our means. However, a key phrase is “each according to their own vocation.” This allows space to be authentically ourselves, with our own unique gifts and talents. Nothing more. You are enough.
Now we need to discern how we can best express our priestly status. What can you offer? Baking for church groups? Join the reading roster? Work in the Vinnies store? Organise some social justice action? Encourage prayer in your own home? Or simply enjoy your own quiet prayer and worship?
Don't be daunted by the expectations of our Church. Instead, celebrate that you belong to God, and that you have his dispensation to get involved and be an active part of his team. We are all his people.
Today's readings: Exodus 19:2-6 Psalm 99 Romans 5:6-11 Matthew 9:36- 10:8
Source: Eleventh Sunday of ordinary time
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