Mark 6:7-13 | Proverbs 9:7-9
Frankly, Jesus’ sending out of the disciples and the details therein are too often ignored. The parameters he set should be notable for the Church. Consider some of them:
He sent them out in pairs of two. Why? …and why do so many corners of the Church send workers out one by one today?
Their provisions were slim to none. Why? …and does it mean anything for today?
He instructed the disciples regarding the reception they received (or didn’t receive). Most notably, he told them not to waste time arguing with or trying to convince those who aren’t listening. Wow! What about unconditional love? …relentless grace?
Apparently there is such a thing as stewardship of time when it comes to people. Note that Jesus does not give the disciples space for shaming judgment or the ridicule of people - though shaking the dust off one’s feet is no prim and proper act, at least according to most standard cultures these days. But this notion is something today’s Christian needs to consider.
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.
Proverbs 9:7-9
Whoever instructs the cynic gets insulted;
whoever corrects the wicked gets hurt.
Don’t correct the impudent, or they will hate you;
correct the wise, and they will love you.
Teach the wise, and they will become wiser;
inform the righteous, and their learning will increase.
Prayer
God,
What does shaking the dust off my feet look like today? Honestly, it would be considered quite rude in most scenarios and cultures these days. Help me understand what Jesus is asking me to do.
I generally have been taught - and tend to believe - that you have patience beyond human understanding. Grace above any bounds known to humanity. Love so unconditional we could never match it.
…and Jesus did tell us to forgive over and over again.
So help me live into the discernment with which Jesus sent his disciples two-by-two.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.