Today, as we gather to celebrate the Memorial of Saints Cyril and Methodius, we find ourselves reflecting on the profound impact these two brothers had on the spreading of the Gospel and the development of a rich spiritual and cultural heritage among the Slavic peoples. Their mission was not just about words; it was about transformation—both of individuals and entire communities.
In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we hear about Paul and Barnabas boldly declaring their mission to the Gentiles, emphasizing that they were to be a light to all nations. This theme of bringing the message of Christ to those outside the Jewish community resonates deeply with the lives of Saints Cyril and Methodius. They, too, understood that the love and teachings of Jesus Christ were meant for everyone, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. This is why for us too, as Franciscan friars who are itinerant, we are happy to go wherever the Spirit of God may lead us, to whatever country. Love for Christ knows no bounds.
Cyril and Methodius dedicated their lives to creating a written script for the Slavic peoples, allowing them to read the Scriptures and understand the beauty of the faith that they were being invited to embrace. This act of love and dedication reflects the sentiment echoed in our Responsorial Psalm: "Go out to all the world and tell the Good News." They lived this commandment fully, ensuring that the Good News was accessible to all.
In our Gospel from Luke, Jesus sends out seventy-two disciples with a clear mandate to proclaim the Kingdom of God. He emphasizes the urgency of the mission but also notes a fundamental truth: "The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few." This is an important reminder for us today. The need for evangelization continues to be pressing. As we reflect on Cyril and Methodius, we are called to recognize our role in this mission but to also heed the command of the Lord to pray that he sends more labourers.
Being sent out "like lambs among wolves" reminds us that our vocations to follow Christ and spread his good news was never meant to be easy. However, we do not embark on this journey alone; we go with his peace within us, and with the aid of the Holy Spirit inspired by the loving will of the Father.
When we engage with others about our faith, whether in conversations with friends, outreach in our local communities, or even through our actions and attitudes, we embody that peace and grace that can only come from God. But we also have our Heavenly Mother with us always, and our dear Guardian Angel, and those described in the Letter to the Hebrews, “A cloud of witnesses”, among whom are the saints we remember today.
In closing, let us pray, through the intercession of Saints Cyril and Methodius, that we may be courageous followers of our Lord, dedicated to our mission of spreading his Gospel. May we strive to speak the language of love and understanding, demonstrating the profound kindness and fidelity of the Lord in all that we do, and though it may feel at times that none go with us, yet will we follow, for as our glorious brethren before us so valiantly gave him their lives in their entirety, so we too know that there is no turning back. With all the saints, we cry out, “Long live Christ, the King of Kings.” Amen.
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