Image by partystock on Freepik

Today, I read the scriptures from Matthew 10:7-15. We, like the Apostles, are to cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers and drive out demons. I don’t know about you, but this feels like a normal day in my life. I encounter people in all categories. Okay, I didn’t meet any lepers today. I may meet someone suffering from a long term illness or disability that keeps them away from other people. They may feel like an outcast. I can only look in the mirror for that comparison. I have numerous challenges that keep me from doing everything I would like to! It takes a bit more work and planning. I know that others are facing greater challenges than me, physically, emotionally, or spiritually. We can all relate to the Jesus’ command to the Apostles. The kingdom of heaven is at hand. We make it present, right here and now, in the way we live and serve others. We can smile, say a kind word and listen with a gentle heart.

For me, today, I read these words with trepidation. Don’t take money or a bag or extra clothes or shoes or even your walking stick! Yikes! What about my water bottle? I am to walk in total trust and depend on the generosity of a good and worthy person. I just need to find one! Then I can stay there. Everywhere I go, I wish that ‘house’ peace. I bring peace and I give peace. Then if they don’t like it, I can leave and let it go. Shake the dust from my feet on the way out. I did what I could. I tried. It’s God’s problem, not mine. He will respond. I don’t need to. I just need to move on. It sounds so simple! Just do it!

It’s so hard to give and serve others without looking for a reward or even peace in return. What are their needs? Can I even help a little? I realize that there are so many people who are struggling and may not be in a position to respond well or in kind. That’s okay. Hopefully, they felt the peace and love and kindness I offered. And that’s supposed to be enough for me.

I prepare reflections or materials for each Sunday’s readings. This coming Sunday is a reading from Mark 6. In this version, Jesus sends the Apostles out two by two and they can take a walking stick! I really need my walking stick. I need a crutch for a little stability. Thank God! Comparing the two accounts of this story, I realize that God asks us for complete trust. He also gives us what we need when we need it. I like the account of the Apostles going out two by two! I hope you have a good friend to take along on your adventures. I am lucky enough to have a few. I also take my walking stick with me. I have been on awesome hikes where I was grateful for my amazing walking sticks. They really made a difference going up hill! In another sense, I can take what I need wherever I go. I just need to plan my day. I start with a prayer, a breath and a decision to meet the challenges of the day in the best way I can. Then I just need to take the first step.

Wishing you peace and hope today!

Scriptures: Matthew 10:7-15 & Mark 6:7-13