Beyond the Clouds by Fr. Jacob Nampudakam, S.A.C. | Page 29

destiny.
This adventure with Christ keeps our community’s vibrant and dynamic
nature. To obtain this takes work. I have faced situations on numerous
occasions when the question regarding the opening of new missions came up.
There are some who want to get all of the answers before setting sail. They
need to ensure the venture’s success; that there is enough money to sustain the
mission for many years, that there will be a sure sign of continuity. We must
put all our man-made strategies in order before stepping into the boat; we are
realists, not dreamers!
Yet if we truly believe in the words of the Gospel, then that is not what the
Lord has taught us. When we go, we take no purses, no haversack, no sandals…
we go forth wishing each one peace, sharing the Good News. The One who sent
you will take care of you.
Are these words true? Most of us might give an excellent homily on that. But
to wet our feet and dirty our hands, that is far more difficult. While there is
always the need for prudence, a project for God must always be based on faith.
His providence must take precedence, and our motivation must be divine and
pure. Only to conquer the mission lands or make a name for ourselves are
dangerous motives. “Seek first the Kingdom of God, and everything else will
be added unto you.”
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