Baruch 4:5-12, 27-29 / Luke 10:17-24 (2019)
Euphoria is a powerful emotion that has amazing effects on people.
With euphoria, there is a lot of adrenaline pumping around and people can rise up to unexpected levels to meet whatever challenges and difficulties and to overcome them.
When people are experiencing euphoria, they are certainly a force to be reckoned with.
Such may be said of the seventy-two disciples that Jesus sent forth to preach the Good News and with authority over devils and to heal the sick.
As they went, they saw for themselves the power of the Good News in the conversion of sinners and their repentance.
They saw how the name of Jesus expelled devils from those who were possessed and brought about healing of the sick and restoration for those who lived in darkness and in the shadow of death.
Indeed a powerful light shined whenever they spoke. Not only were the people euphoric about the wonders they worked, the 72 disciples were euphoric too.
So when they came back high and rejoicing, Jesus brought them down to some sobering.
They must not forget who is the power behind those wonders.
In the 1st reading, it was because the people of Israel forgot about God that He had to be a constant reminder of Israel of their sins and also that He is their redeemer.
May we also not, in our euphoria of our success and achievements, forget that it is God who gave us those gifts and blessings.
It is in remembering to thank God always that our names will be written in heaven.