Being sent... Mk 6, 7-13

Summary

In this sermon, the speaker reflects on Jesus' instructions to his apostles to travel light and depend on God's providence. Jesus sends them out in pairs to preach repentance, heal the sick, and cast out demons, emphasizing faith and trust. The speaker encourages listeners to witness their faith through actions of humility, forgiveness, and kindness in their daily lives, drawing parallels to modern examples of selfless acts and genuine Christian love. The message underscores the call to be living testimonies of Jesus' teachings in all circumstances.

Takeaways

• 😀 Jesus sent out the twelve apostles in pairs to preach and cast out unclean spirits.
• 📜 The apostles were instructed to take nothing for their journey except a staff, no bread, no haversack, no money, and only one tunic.
• 👟 They were to wear sandals but not take a spare tunic, signifying trust in God's provision and hospitality of others.
• 🏠 Jesus advised them to stay in any house that welcomed them until they left the district, and to shake off the dust from their feet if a place did not welcome them.
• 🗣️ The apostles preached repentance, casting out devils, anointing, and curing the sick.
• 🌍 All Christians, by virtue of their baptism, are called to be missionaries and witnesses of Jesus Christ in their daily lives.
• ❤️ Witnessing involves humble service, kindness, and forgiveness rather than fighting for justice or proving others wrong.
• 🙏 True love and forgiveness can rebuild what was destroyed, as shown in the example of a woman who forgave her husband after he abandoned her.
• 💡 Repentance or 'metanoia' means changing one's way of thinking to see God's love and provision in all circumstances.
• 🎯 The apostles' mission demonstrated trust in God’s provision and the power of the gospel to transform lives.

Q & A

What is the main message conveyed in today's gospel reading from the book of Mark?

The main message is about Jesus sending out his apostles in pairs to preach repentance, perform exorcisms, and heal the sick, demonstrating trust in God's provision and spreading the Gospel.

Why does Jesus send his apostles out in pairs according to the speaker?

Jesus sends his apostles out in pairs to ensure they have mutual support and to adhere to the principle that truth is established by two or three witnesses, providing credibility to their testimony.

What instructions does Jesus give the apostles regarding what they should take on their journey?

Jesus instructs the apostles to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts, and to wear sandals but not to carry an extra tunic. This signifies trust in God's provision and reliance on the hospitality of others.

How does the speaker interpret the instruction to shake off the dust from their feet if a place does not welcome them?

The speaker interprets this action as a sign to those who reject the apostles' message. It symbolizes a testimony against them, indicating they have rejected the good news.

What examples does the speaker give to illustrate modern applications of being a witness for Jesus Christ?

The speaker gives examples such as showing humility, forgiving others, offering help without expecting anything in return, and living in a way that demonstrates God's love through actions rather than just words.

How does the speaker describe the concept of 'metanoia' in the context of the gospel?

'Metanoia' is described as a change in thinking or perspective, seeing reality in a new way that aligns with God's love and truth. It involves a transformation in how one perceives their situation and the world, leading to changes in behavior.

What role does trust play in the apostles' mission as described in the gospel and explained by the speaker?

Trust is crucial in the apostles' mission as they are sent out with minimal provisions, relying on God's guidance and the hospitality of others. This underscores a deep trust in God's ability to provide and support them in their mission.

Why does the speaker mention the example of a woman who forgave the driver after being hit by a car?

The speaker uses this example to illustrate the concept of witnessing God's love through forgiveness and not seeking personal justice. The woman's act of forgiveness and calm response to the accident serves as a powerful testimony of Christian values.

How does the speaker relate the gospel's message to everyday situations like family life and community interactions?

The speaker emphasizes that being a witness for Jesus Christ involves everyday acts of kindness, forgiveness, and service within our families and communities, reflecting God's love in practical ways.

What is the significance of the apostles not taking a spare tunic according to the speaker?

Not taking a spare tunic symbolizes trust in divine provision and the willingness to rely on the hospitality of others. It also highlights a commitment to the mission without concern for personal comfort or security.