14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today in our Gospel Jesus sends 72 out ahead of him to prepare the way; today you have been sent out ahead of Jesus to prepare the way.  In the midst of the joyful celebrations of the 4th of July this weekend, we are challenged to keep an eye open for anyone around us who is hurting, who has a heavy heart, and to help lighten their load, if only just a little.  In this way we can bring the light of Christ to hurting hearts, preparing the way for explosions of God's grace!  Even the biggest fireworks are started by a tiny, little flame.