There is an almost palpable joy that permeates the readings of today. We can sense it in Paul's words in the first reading. Not only is he happy that the Colossian Christians are growing in faith and hope and love, but he is especially pleased that the Good News they received is spreading all over the world and producing the same results¡K How does all this come about?

The gospel narrates the beginnings of the ministry of Jesus, who moves from town to town, teaching and healing, proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom of God. But although Jesus is the central character in the readings, his ministry is very much aided by the efforts of others. As we are told in the gospel, all those who had friends suffering from diseases of one kind or another brought them to him¡K Similarly, for all his concern, Paul himself did not found the community at Colossae. That was the work of Epaphras, a faithful deputy.

The joy we find in the first reading comes in no small measure from his efforts. And perhaps we might be moved to consider our own part in this whole joyful enterprise. How are we being called to bring others to the Lord so that the gospel may continue to spread into the hearts of all?