Monday 08 November 2021
- Bible Book:
- Mark
He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. (vs 8-9)
Background
Jesus was definitely not a Scout! For those who haven't been a part of the Scout Association at one time or another, their motto is ‘Be Prepared’. For me, that means I still pack a snow shovel and sleeping bag in my car during the winter, just in case. The disciples couldn't pack for the ‘just in case’ – they are instructed to take nothing with them when they are sent out to share the good news.
In the second part of this passage, Jesus instructs the disciples to find houses where they are welcomed and to stay there while in that place. This restriction on luggage and encouragement to rely on strangers meant that the disciples would have to turn to others to look after them while they are out on mission.
Imagine walking into a strange village with no money to buy food or to get a room for the night. What would it be like to seek out a kind soul who might take you in and feed you? However, this was the start of the disciples’ mission; it would be these homes where the gospel would begin to take root and lives would be transformed by God’s power.
People are healed, unclean spirits banished and the kingdom of God is brought near as the disciples journeyed through the land. It was nearing the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry but these disciples were beginning to learn how they could continue to share his story once Jesus had gone.
To Ponder:
- Is there a time when you have forgotten to pack something important for a journey? What happened?
- Why do you think Jesus asked the disciples to rely on hospitality from strangers?
First published in 2018.