Today’s Gospel reading calls us to reflect on the meaning of discipleship. Each of us are called as disciples. God is our authority and our mission is to spread a message of faith, hope and love so that others may find God or that which is deeply sacred in their own lives.

God is with us in every age and time. When we step out in faith, anything is possible. It doesn’t matter who we are, where we live or what we do – we are all servants, teachers and leaders. We each have an important role to play. No-one is better or greater than the next person. We are all equally capable and worthy to do God’s work.

When Jesus asks us to go and make disciples of all nations, he is not asking us to change or convert others by controlling or standing over them. He is asking us to model his teachings and invite others to find God’s presence in their own lives and ways.

This week we celebrate National Reconciliation Week. As a First Nations woman, this is a time to take stock and reflect on where we have come from and where we are going as a nation. This is a time to acknowledge past injustices and move forward in the spirit of hope and unity. It is up to us as individuals as well as the collective to take action. We must speak up, constantly advocating for a more just and equitable world.

To be a true disciple is to reach out to others with faith, hope and love. We can make a difference, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem. Building relationships and cultivating genuine compassion and empathy with each other is the first step.

As we grow in love, tolerance and understanding, we come to see that God is always at work. When we share our faith, we allow God’s divine grace and mercy to transform suffering, challenges, hardship and struggle. May we each be encouraged and inspired to reach out to others and make a real difference in the world.