On Jesus instructing his Apostles in Meekness, Prudence, and Simplicity

From  
Meditations on the Life of Our Lord 
by J. Nouet, S.J.


Seventeenth Week After Pentecost - Friday

1st Point. "Behold, I send you as sheep in the midst of wolves." (Matt., x. 16.) The good shepherd sends his sheep amongst wolves, but he has promised: "They shall not perish forever, and no man shall pluck them out of my hand." (John, x. 28.) Sheep of the fold of Christ, fear nothing! you have received your commission from him whose Omnipotence has created, whose Wisdom governs, and whose Goodness preserves the universe.  Does the meekness of the lamb mark your conduct? Do you shun the world as the lamb flies the wolf? Do you love your Pastor, listen to his voice, and endevour to walk in his footsteps?  If you resemble the lamb you may draw souls to Jesus Christ; but if you indulge, through the illusion of a mistaken zeal, in natural harshness or impetuousity, you may certainly be defeated.

2nd Point. "Be ye therefore wise as serpents." (Matt., x. 16) The serpent is remarkable for caution.  You should not forget what you owe yourself, in labouring for the salvation of others.  Lead souls to heaven so that you may be the first to enter thereby.  The serpent periodically renews its skin.  You should be renewed in spirit by continual mortification.  The serpent supplies by subtlety its want of strength, and is quickly-sighted in discovering danger. You should distrust your own strength, and avail yourself of those lights which God imparts, to discover and remedy your spiritual evils.  The serpent exposes his body for the preservation of his head.  Preserve a union with Jesus Christ, who is your mystic head: separated from him you can perform no action worthy of eternal life.

3rd Point. "Be therefore wise as serpents, and simple as doves." (Matt., x. 16) Prudence guards you against the snares of the wily; simplicity prevents you deceiving others.  Prudence teaches you silence; simplicity renders you sincere in expression.  Prudence makes you discreet in action; simplicity directs the attention purely to God.  These virtues are essential to apostolic labourers.  Are you void of bitterness, anger, or vindictiveness; knowing neither artifice nor malice, but amiable to all? There are qualities that form a missionary according to the spirit and example of Jesus Christ, and constitute the sweet odour by which you are to attract many to his service.