In our first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, synagogue officials ask if anyone would like to speak after hearing the readings of the day.  Paul took advantage of this opportunity and began to speak about salvation history linking Moses to David to Jesus Christ.  Paul, who was one of the most outspoken critics of Jesus, is now living out Christ’s commandment to share the Good News in every corner of the world.

 

We are all called to share the truth about Christ – perhaps not as missionaries like Paul, but we are commanded to teach our friends and family.  This is not an easy request, but Jesus told every one of us do so.

 

Paul took many risks with his preaching.  Some of the Jewish leaders may have been fascinated to hear about the true Messiah and were moved to conversion, others felt Paul was guilty of blasphemy and should be punished.  When we take the opportunity to share our faith with others, we too, are taking risks.  Our friends and family may feel uncomfortable, or irritated, but we need to take the opportunity to plant seeds and pray that they land on fertile soil.

 

For the last 6 months, I have been working with the Augustine Institute (AI) in Denver.  The AI is creating some incredible Catholic content to make the process of sharing the Good News easy through first class videos, talks and teaching materials.  Yesterday, the AI released a new series called The SEARCH, to help non-believers and those who do not affiliate with any religion understand the answers to the key questions in life: Why am I here?  Is there really a God?  Why is Church important?

 

St. Raphael has purchased access to The SEARCH and all AI material for all parishioners.  To access this, go to the St. Raphael website homepage and click on the box: FORMED: On Demand.  I highly recommend you take a few minutes today to explore FORMED and to watch the first episode of The SEARCH.  There will be additional episodes each of the next 6 weeks.

 

We are all in search of answers, just as God is in search of our hearts.  I’m grateful that St. Raphael is providing tools to help each of us on our journey.

 

May God Bless each of you.

 

– Deacon Dan