September 8, 2019: What does it mean to be "all in" as a disciple?

Preaching for the Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Gina Messina offers a reflection on what it means to be "all in" as a disciple of Jesus: "When Jesus says..that we need to be 'all in,' what does this mean? First, I think we need to be honest with ourselves and acknowledge that being 'all in' is rare - it is challenging and a great risk that many of us are not willing to take. That said, what we can do is wake up every morning and acknowledge our position in the world, our abilities to contribute to positive social change, and do our best to make that happen. We are not always going to be successful; but it is our intention that matters."  Gina Messina is a feminist scholar, Catholic theologian, and activist. Her research and writing gives particular attention to the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. Messina is currently Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio where she formerly served as Dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/09082019 to learn more about Gina, to view her video or read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.