Summoned and sent forth. Homily for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B.

In chapter 3 of Mark’s gospel Jesus summoned those he himself wanted. In today’s gospel from chapter 6 those whom he has summoned are now sent forth. The Jewish philosopher Martin Buber wrote that “All revelation is a summons and a sending.” Archbishop Fulton Sheen once described the rhythm of Christian life as: “First come, then go.” We are summoned to be with Jesus, as were the disciples. Then, like the disciples, we are sent forth.