7 And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.
8 He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts;
9 but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics.
10 And he said to them, "Where you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place.
11 And if any place will not receive you and they refuse to hear you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet for a testimony against them."
12 So they went out and preached that men should repent.
13 And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many that were sick and healed them
- Mark 6: 7 - 13
Often, as we go through life, we look to scripture to give us a handle on things. And there it is. You see verses (as those above) which seem to be written with you in mind. This is what gives you the courage to go on. Today's reading is a good example.
Many a time, we are not accepted where we go, or our words are not heeded. Jesus was well aware of these possibilities when he sent out his disciples. We should, trusting in Him, be unperturbed, and resume our journey. For Jesus was a traveler, and when he was not bid welcome, he did not tarry, but went his way to continue his mission. Ultimately, it is the conviction in oneself that will see us through.
Insight
Why does Jesus tell the apostles to "travel light" with little or no provision? "Poverty of spirit" frees us from greed and preoccupation with possessions and makes ample room for God's provision. The Lord wants his disciples to be dependent on him and not on themselves. (www.rc.net)
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Picture source: Robert Grant Jordan at anglicansablaze(dot)blogspot.com
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