Don't Pack A Bag

Jesus sends the disciples on a mission of trust.

We really get a sense of the pace of Mark in today’s passage. Jesus sends out the disciples, but with only enough provisions to keep moving. I’m not sure it’s nearly as much about the provisions as it is about the implications of what they’re doing.

This isn’t a leisurely mission. They’re not setting up shop or building a base of operations. There’s no long-term strategy or extra baggage — just movement, presence, and trust. They’re to rely on the hospitality of others, shake the dust off when they’re not received, and keep going.

In other words: the urgency of the message matters more than comfort, planning, or outcome. It’s not just that they’re sent — it’s how they’re sent that says something about the kingdom.

And maybe that’s the challenge for us, too. Most of us are pretty good at prepping, planning, and optimizing. But Jesus seems to think the power is in going — not going perfectly prepared, but going obediently and dependently.

The disciples had heard Jesus teach, seen him heal, and watched him cast out evil. And now, with little in hand but authority and trust, they’re told to do the same.

Mark 6:7-13

He called for the Twelve and sent them out in pairs. He gave them authority over unclean spirits. He instructed them to take nothing for the journey except a walking stick—no bread, no bags, and no money in their belts. He told them to wear sandals but not to put on two shirts. He said, “Whatever house you enter, remain there until you leave that place. If a place doesn’t welcome you or listen to you, as you leave, shake the dust off your feet as a witness against them.” So they went out and proclaimed that people should change their hearts and lives. They cast out many demons, and they anointed many sick people with olive oil and healed them.

Psalm 121

I raise my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.
God won’t let your foot slip. Your protector won’t fall asleep on the job.
No! Israel’s protector never sleeps or rests!
The Lord is your protector; the Lord is your shade right beside you.
The sun won’t strike you during the day; neither will the moon at night.
The Lord will protect you from all evil; God will protect your very life.
The Lord will protect you on your journeys—whether going or coming—from now until forever from now.

Prayer

God,

You send not with certainty, but with trust, not with bags full of backup plans, but with the bare essentials.

Teach me to go — not just when I feel fully ready, but when you call. Help me to walk lightly, to stay open to welcome, and not be crushed when I’m turned away. You know that I always want to please people, and it’s one of the biggest hindrances for me getting things done.

So give me courage to live the way of the kingdom: dependent, responsive, and full of grace. And may my going—however simple or small—bear witness to your goodness.

By your Spirit & in Christ,
Amen.