Gospel
Mark 6:7-13
7 Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits. 8 He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick—no food, no sack, no money in their belts. 9 They were, however, to wear sandals but not a second tunic. 10 He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there. 11 Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.” 12 So they went off and preached repentance. 13 The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
Introduction
Mark 6:7-13 recounts a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry when He sends out the twelve apostles two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits and instructing them on how to carry out their mission. This passage highlights the early formation of Christian discipleship and the call to trust in God’s provision.
Historical Background
In the time of Jesus, itinerant teachers were common in Judea and Galilee, often traveling from village to village. By sending His disciples in pairs, Jesus both followed and redefined this tradition, emphasizing partnership, mutual support, and witness. The instructions to take nothing except a staff, to wear sandals but not bring extra tunics or money, underscored a radical dependence on God and the hospitality of others. These directions reflected both the urgency and simplicity of their mission.
Theological Context
Theologically, Mark 6:7-13 demonstrates the authority Jesus confers upon His followers, empowering them to participate in His work of healing, preaching, and casting out demons. The passage reveals that discipleship involves both proclamation and action, requiring faith in God’s guidance and provision. It also introduces the concept of rejection—Jesus prepares His disciples for the reality that not everyone will welcome their message yet assures them that their mission remains valid and vital.
Learning Lessons
God will provide and meet our needs as we carry out His work. When we are called to serve, He equips us with the necessary authority and power to fulfill our mission. We are to travel light and focus on our mission without being burdened by material possessions. Let us be open to the Lord’s transformative work in our lives and the lives of others.
Reflection for the Day
As we reflect on Mark 6:7-13 today, we are invited to consider where God is calling us to step out in faith, trusting not in our own resources but in His provision. The disciples’ willingness to travel light and rely on the kindness of strangers challenges us to let go of our need for control and security, and instead, to embrace the journey God sets before us. May we, like the apostles, be open to God’s direction, courageous in our witness, and confident that even when we face rejection, we are never sent alone.
Poem
Jesus summoned the Twelve with grace,
And sent them out to every place.
Two by two, their mission clear,
To spread the Word, to conquer fear.
With authority, He gave them might,
Over unclean spirits, they brought the light.
No food, no sack, no coins to hold,
But faith and trust, more precious than gold.
A walking stick, their only gear,
In simple trust, they had no fear.
For on this journey, God's love would guide,
With every step, He walked beside.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You called and sent forth Your disciples, Grant us the courage to follow in their steps. Empower us with Your authority over all that is unclean and fill our hearts with unwavering faith.
Help us to trust in Your provision, taking nothing but Your guidance for our journey. May we rely on Your strength and grace, as we spread Your love and message.
Guide us with Your wisdom and keep us humble and focused on Your mission. In Your name, we seek to serve, For Your glory, we strive to be faithful.
Amen.
Pericope:
II: The Mystery of Jesus
THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE
Mark 6:7-13
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
Published:
February 06, 2025, 7:53 AM
