Jesus sends out the twelve disciples Luke 9:1-6
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
Imagine that you are one of the disciples whom Jesus sent out as his messengers. Jesus tells me what to do and how to do it. ‘I give you the power to speak in my name and cast out demons of disconnection and negativity. Don’t say, I can’t; my power is with you. Go as you are, without baggage, graciously accepting the hospitality which will be offered you. And if you have a bad experience, learn from it and then let it go, like brushing the dust from your feet.’
So, I set out, fearful yet excited. I tell people of the love of God and his wonderful forgiveness. I encourage people to look beyond biases to the person who is wrongly judged. I am not riding on a donkey and I am obviously not a rich person. So people will come up to me without fear. They are interested to learn why it is that I have come without luggage, dependant on the goodness and generosity of the townspeople. I have a great sense of freedom. This is not my work, but God’s. What a privilege to be involved in such activities!
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Can I recognise the difference between what I really need and what I want?
· Am I prepared to rely on God to provide me with what I need?
· Can I meet people where they are, not putting myself above them?
· Do I hold on to bad memories? What about getting rid of the dust?
· Do I remember to ask for God’s guidance at the beginning of each day?
Prayer
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Amen.