GOSPEL POWER |FEBRUARY 4, 2021

THURSDAY | 4TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Gospel: MK: 6:7-13

Jesus called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. 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. He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

Reflection

Jesus’ instruction to the Twelve that they should travel light is symbolic of the demands of discipleship. Having stayed in the company of Jesus from the time he first summoned them in Mk 3:13-19, the Twelve are supposed to have assimilated their Teacher’s values, for that is the essence of becoming disciples. Now, sent as Jesus’ representatives, their lifestyle is supposed to reflect the values of Jesus, especially his trust in the heavenly Father’s providential care.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, may we never forget that the Church originated in a community of missionaries and that we ourselves are called to be missionaries today. Amen