Dominic Guzman, a Spaniard, was born in 1170 AD. In 1203, as a priest, he accompanied a bishop on a diplomatic mission through the region of southern France. At that time, the religion of that area was a version of Gnosticism (First Century heresy) called Catharism. Many of the regionās ruling elite were heavily influenced by this form of heresy. Though many preachers sought to evangelize the region with the gospel, they were ineffective.
Dominic was convinced that a new model of missions based on the 12 Apostles was needed. He thought these new missionaries should travel on foot without money, preach wherever they traveled, and live a life of charity. Eventually, this new model would evolve into the Order of Preachers or Dominicans, as they are famously known.
This order would produce some of the greatest theologians like Thomas Aquinas, Catherine of Siena, and Bartolome de Las Casas. Unfortunately, some of its more radicals were the architects of The Inquisition, where people were killed in the name of ātruth.ā Nonetheless, The Order of the Preachers helped reform missions by rediscovering the Biblical witness. When his friars asked him to produce a formal testament, he answered, āAll my children, what I leave to you: Have charity, guard humility, and make your treasure out of voluntary poverty.ā
As I reflect upon Dominicās life, my thoughts drift to Micah 6:8, āHe has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.ā
This Week’s Readings:
- Monday – Luke 11
- Tuesday – Luke 12
- Wednesday – Luke 13
- Thursday – Luke 14
- Friday – Luke 15
- Parents, teachers, and students as the 2021-2022 school term gets under way.
- All upcoming ministry events inside and outside the walls of St. Paul.
- Families in crisis.
- Loved ones battling illness.
- Those seeking to find their way.
- The St. Paul Church family.
- The United Methodist Church.
- Our leaders, our country, and our world.
āDonāt worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.ā – Philippians 4:6