Gospel
Luke 9:1-6
1 Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. 3 He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. 5 And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” 6 Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
Historical Background
This event occurs during Jesus’ Galilean ministry, a time of growing popularity and opposition. He had already demonstrated authority over sickness, demons, and nature.
Jesus had formally chosen the Twelve earlier. This moment marks their first commissioning to act independently.
The instruction to “shake the dust off your feet” echoes a Jewish practice of separating oneself from Gentile impurity. Here, it’s repurposed as a prophetic sign against rejection of the gospel.
Jesus’ command to travel light (no staff, bag, bread, money, or extra tunic) reflects rabbinic traditions of temple purity—entering holy service unencumbered by worldly concerns.
Theological Context
Jesus gives the Twelve “power and authority” over demons and diseases—echoing divine empowerment seen in prophets like Elijah and Elisha. Their mission is to proclaim the Kingdom of God—a reign marked by healing, mercy, and repentance. The radical simplicity of their journey emphasizes trust in divine provision and hospitality.
Jesus prepares them for rejection, teaching that their identity is rooted in Him—not in others’ acceptance.
Learning Lessons
The gospel addresses both spiritual and physical brokenness. Faithfulness matters more than results. True ministry flows from dependence, not abundance.
God equips those He calls. Jesus doesn’t just send—He empowers. Receiving and being received are both acts of grace.
“Sent with Sandals”
He called them close, then sent them wide,
No staff, no sack, no coin to hide.
Just hearts aflame and hands made whole,
To preach the reign that heals the soul.
No second cloak, no bread in hand,
Just trust in Him and love unplanned.
Where doors swing wide, they dwell and bless,
Where dust remains, they shake distress.
The Kingdom walks on humble feet,
In village paths and crowded street.
With every step, the news is sung:
The reign of God has just begun.
Lord Jesus,
You called the Twelve and gave them power— Not for prestige, but for proclamation. You sent them with nothing but faith, and they returned with stories of healing and hope.
Send me too, Lord. Strip me of what I cling to, that I may cling to You alone. Give me courage to speak, compassion to heal, and grace to endure rejection without bitterness.
Let my life be a testimony, not just in words, but in how I walk, how I welcome, how I trust.
May Your Kingdom come through me, in every village, every heart, every moment of surrender.
Amen.
Pericope:
IV: The Ministry in Galilee
THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE
Luke 9:1-6
Gospel Acclamation
The Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
