Bible Reading: Mark 6:7-13, 30-31
Calling the Twelve to him, Jesus began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff, no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them."
They went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
A Reflection
I love the way we see Jesus’ leadership style develop through the gospels, and the way he trains and supports his disciples.
First he calls the disciples to follow him, then he demonstrates to them how to teach and how to minister to the sick. He then gives them a task, with clear instructions, and sends them out in twos for mutual support. Then, having completed the task, they meet back with Jesus to discuss their day and have a bit of rest and recuperation.
The final stage of their training will be after the ascension when Jesus’ work is finished, and the baton is handed on to them.
I think there is something important here that we can learn from the disciples’ debrief with Jesus.
At the end of each day, why not accept Jesus’ invitation to "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place”. Switch off the TV and have a simple time of reflection with God.
Become aware of the presence of the Holy Spirit as you look back over the events of the day.
Notice God’s presence with you at each stage, thank him for all that was good, confess to him anything that was not good. Be aware of his love and forgiveness.
Bring to him in prayer the people and the things that are on your heart and leave them with him.
Commit to him the day that will unfold tomorrow.
And then get some rest.
A Prayer
Save us, O Lord, while waking,
and guard us while sleeping,
that awake we may watch with Christ
and asleep may rest in peace.
Amen
Before the ending of the day