The disciples return from their mission of going out, proclaiming the kingdom and witnessing to its coming with awesome signs. They share the incredible power of God working through them. Jesus acknowledges their enthusiasm but tells them not to rejoice because of their new-found authority over evil spirits; the disciples are to rejoice because their names are ‘written in heaven’.

It is this knowledge of the lasting joy offered to us, that gets us through life. Worldly joys are temporary. They offer a shallow, momentary happiness. Knowing that our names are ‘written in heaven’ is the greatest hope and greatest joy we can experience. True peace is found in acknowledging that what happens to us in this world does not matter, as Job, in the first reading, realises. To know that we are part of God’s plan is the source of our blessedness, too.

Today’s readings leave us with three strong takeaways: first, take joy knowing that your name is written in heaven; second, there is joy in seeing God’s purpose being fulfilled and being an instrument in that process; and third, there is joy in the knowledge that God’s salvation has been made available for all people.