Mark's chapter 16, verses 9-15, part of the so-called long-ending, is never read on a weekend, but it has an worthwhile message for us. The disciples don't believe Mary Magdalene nor the two disciples from the country when they tell the disciples that they have seen the risen Jesus. Jesus himself appears to them and reproaches them for their unbelief and stubbornness. Immediately after that he says, "Go out to the whole world; proclaim the gospel to all creation."
It is both startling and encouraging that those who have just been scolded for their lack of faith are now entrusted with preaching the gospel to the whole world. A great way to show us that God's grace, not human effort, is the most important element in spreading the Good News. Anytime we are tempted to pat ourselves on the back for being one of God's chosen, it's humbling to know that God will work with just about anything. Anytime we are inclined to beg off because we haven't got what it takes, it's good to know that God accomplishes salvation despite human weakness.
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