Reflections

Thursday, October 5, 2017

Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals, and greet no one along the way.
(Luke 10:4)

Your disciples, Lord, had only one purpose, to go ahead of you and announce your coming. They are to take nothing with them and greet no one so that they will not be distracted from their mission. That sounds harsh! Surely, they say, “Shalom” to those they passed, without stopping for conversation. I don’t know, but they must have understood. They went in pairs so they could support and encourage each other. Even then, when most did not have extra clothing or money bags, it must have taken great courage.

How often do I leave my apartment, even to go a short distance, without taking something along? I call my walker my wheelbarrow because I use it to carry things I might need: a water canteen, a notebook and pen, a book, tissues, some cash. When I pack for a trip I throw in anything I might possibly use. I want to be prepared for any exigency.

I have insurance on my health and household goods. I add a little each month to my savings account. I buy enough food to last months. I keep batteries, candles and cooking fuel in case of power outages. I have clothes I haven’t worn in a year. I forget how fleeting this life is and how unpredictable. I want to be self-sufficient, even though I know that nothing but you can suffice.

If we take nothing, we are totally dependent on you. Isn’t that what I want, Lord? My Jesus, I trust in you. Let me prove that trust by eliminating attachments and distractions.

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