Today’s Scripture Readings

Gospel Reading

NRSV

Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. He said to them, ‘Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money—not even an extra tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.’ They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.

There is something both challenging and reassuring in Jesus’ words to the disciples: “Take nothing for your journey.” (Luke 9:3)

I know for me, I feel much more comfortable being prepared. I like to know what lies ahead; to have what I might need; and, if possible, pack a little extra, just in case. When we prepare in this way, it is not only material things we gather around us. We can spend a great deal of energy worrying about whether we have enough time, ability, confidence or certainty to face what life asks of us.

Yet in this instance, Jesus sends the disciples out with very little. Not because they are unequipped, but because they have already been given what they need. Their first reliance is to be on God.

Perhaps there is an invitation here for each of us. We will never be completely prepared for everything the journey of life brings. There will be unexpected turns, moments of uncertainty and times when we wonder whether we have what it takes. Our faith reminds us that we do not travel alone. God accompanies us and continues to equip us along the way.

And when the disciples are not welcomed, Jesus tells them to continue on. We too will encounter people who may not understand our faith or share the way we choose to live. Our call is not to lose heart or our zeal, but to keep going, witnessing through lives marked by love, compassion, generosity and hope.
Perhaps “taking nothing for the journey” is really an invitation to carry one thing above all else: trust.

Will I trust that God will provide all I need for today’s journey?