So I Sent Them into the World

May 7, 2008

Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

By Melanie Rigney

Paul told the presbyters of the Church of Ephesus, “Keep watch over yourselves and over the whole flock of which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers…” (Acts 20:28)

Jesus prayed to his Holy Father, “As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world. And I consecrate myself for them, so that they also may be consecrated in truth.” (John 17:18-20)

Piety

Lord, fill me with fire to go where you send me in this world: to the slums of Calcutta, to the halls of Congress, to the streets of Culmore, to the alleys of Anacostia, to the Massanutten mountain trails. Equip me with the courage to shout “Yes!” when you call me to sing Your praises beyond my own bedroom and community.

Study

Today's Readings

“Children, Go Where I Send Thee”

Peter, Paul, and Mary (the folk singers, that is). Natalie Merchant. Nina Simone. The Kingston Trio. Johnny Cash. Michael McDonald. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

What do they all have in common?

They all have recorded a version of the rousing old spiritual “Children, Go Where I Send Thee,” which you may know as “The Holy Baby” or “Born in Bethlehem.” While the lyrics vary by the artist, in every one, God explains how he’s going to send His children forth, starting with that “little bitty baby … born, born, oh born in Bethlehem” typical through the twelve Apostles.

Paul and Silas. The Magi. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The eight people who entered the ark. Those who waited while the lost sheep was found.

What do they all have in common?

According to the song’s lyrics, they’re among those who answered the Lord’s call when sent. Some just waited; some survived while others died; some suffered martyr’s death.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus notes that we do not belong to the world, “any more than I belong to the world” and that his followers were hated in this world for that reason. He calls on the Father to keep us “from the Evil One” by consecrating us in truth, and notes that during his time on earth, he lost only “the son of destruction.”

Does it truly matter, then, what happens to us during our time on earth as long as we go where He sends us? Let us have the wisdom to hear the call, and the courage to follow it.

Action

Where has He sent you? Are you sure you are headed there? Resolve to volunteer for a community or parish ministry in May that takes you off your well-worn path of worship and service. His voice may be clearer there.