Denial and Affirmation

In this week's Gospel reading (Matthew 10:16-33), Jesus sends his disciples out on mission, and in doing so, leads them along a path in which they will be asked to take up their cross and endure hardship because of Him. But Jesus doesn't leave his disciples without hope: though they will be asked to deny themselves comfort, acceptance, and even physical safety, he anchors them in God's affirmation of their value to Him: "you are worth more than many sparrows." Fr. Michael preaches.