He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick
–no food, no sack, no money in their belts.

mark 6:8

Mark 6:7-13

Reflection

Jesus sends out the Twelve Apostles to cast out demons, heal the sick, and preach repentance. He tells them to take nothing with them except a staff, not even money or food. They do this and heal many.

Imagine the radical trust the Apostles had in Jesus when he sends them out with only the shirt on their back. They have to rely completely on others for places to sleep and food to eat, trusting they would be provided for. We often complain when we’re missing some comfort – the heat is too high, there aren’t any snacks in the pantry.

Have you ever truly put all your trust in the Lord, asking him to provide for you, whether it be financially or materially? Jesus wants us to do that. He wants to care and provide for us, especially in those times when it seems we won’t survive. This requires trust.

Ask the Lord for an increase in trust. Reflect on how you can give your concerns to him little by little and entrust your entire life to Christ.

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Saint of the Day

St. Paul Miki and Companions: died 1597

“I certainly did teach the doctrine of Christ. I thank God it is for this reason I die. I believe that I am telling only the truth before I die. I know you believe me and I want to say to you all once again: Ask Christ to help you to become happy.” St. Paul Miki