The Holy Martyr Callinicus.
1 Corinthians 16:4-12; Matthew 21:28-32.
Read 1 Corinthians 16:4-12
St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians ends on a remarkably human note. After teaching about the Resurrection, the Eucharist, unity, and charity, he now speaks of travel plans, companions, and the hope of spending time with the faithful. “I hope to stay with you for some time, if the Lord permits” (1 Cor 16:7). He does not want merely to pass by. The people of Corinth—the Christian community that he had evangelized and for whom he labored with the heart of a spiritual father—were not projects to be completed, but persons to be loved!
Yet Paul also knows that even the deepest human affection must never overshadow the mission. He remains attentive to the “wide door for effective work” that God has opened to him. His plans, friendships, and desires are all placed beneath a greater purpose: the glory of God and the spread of the Gospel. This is a reminder for us as well. We cherish our relationships, yet we must always keep before our eyes the greater calling Christ has entrusted to us. Our work, responsibilities, and daily decisions find their true meaning only when they lead us and others closer to Christ.
Paul also mentions Timothy and Apollos, asking that they be welcomed and respected. The Gospel is never the work of one person alone. The Church advances through men and women who encourage one another – through you and I – carry one another’s burdens, and rejoice in each other’s gifts. We, too, are called to support them—not only with our words, but also with our prayers. Let us pray for our priests, that they may shepherd Christ’s flock with fidelity; for our missionaries, that they may remain safe and proclaim the Gospel with courage; for our catechists, that they may faithfully and boldly hand on the treasure of the faith; for our chaplains—in hospitals, prisons, the military, and every place where people are in need—that they may bring Christ’s hope and compassion; for parents, that they may guide their children with wisdom, love, and a living example of faith; and for all who quietly witness to Christ each day, often unseen, but never unnoticed by God.
May we never lose sight of the greater mission. Let our friendships, our work, and our plans always lead us—and others—closer to our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom belongs all glory forever. Amen.