This reading always made me think, “Who would volunteer for such a job?” Who would willingly become the scourge of their communities, betrayed by loved ones, and vilified by all? I have learned over time, however, that faith is a collective gift rather than an isolated burden. Moreover, there are many different ways in which those who lead draw others to the fold.

My father’s birthday is today. He recently passed on Friday, June 4th, after lingering too long on Earth, limited in his body’s weakness and by the unkind hands of dementia. My father was often a man of few words—unless it was about Notre Dame, classical music, historic biographies, or great food and wine. My father attended Mass every day of his life while he physically could. His faith was the lifeblood of his life. My father led by example, “quiet as a dove,” always watching and guiding his seven children in his own way. He was not one to pontificate, but he was strong in his perspective and adamant in his actions.

For my father, integrity and etiquette were everything. He was a tower of principles: a resolute model of honesty, hard work, and charity. He held every door and was gracious to anyone who ever did something for him—a true gentleman. He was brilliant and never lost his sense of humor. My father didn’t like a lot of fuss, but he did love his faith, his family, and Notre Dame with an unwavering depth of devotion.

Like the Apostles in today’s gospel, our journeys in this life are filled with significant, often life-changing, challenges. Whether these are personal, communal, or global, our faith calls us to engage and endure, to go forward confidently and courageously, knowing that our ultimate reward awaits us in heaven.