Thursday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Hebrews 12:18-24, Psalm 48 and Mark 6:7-13
“And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out two by two.” (Mark 6:7)
Having spent some time with Jesus, it was time for the disciples of Jesus to go out on “industrial training.” Jesus knew very well that learning without practical application is futile. In sending out the twelve, there are some important lessons for us.
1. CALL: Jesus was the one who called the twelve. The religious life is a gift, not a profession.
2. COLLABORATION: Jesus sent them out two by two. As far as winning souls is concerned, no one ever succeeds alone.
3. DETACHMENT: Jesus charged the disciples to take nothing for the journey. The disciples were to go empty-handed as a sign of trust in God who always provides what is needed.
4. RIGHT ATTITUDE: Jesus told them not to force themselves on those who will reject them but to simply leave shaking off the dust on their feet. The minister should never be discouraged or look down on himself when he fails.
5. CONTENT OF THE MESSAGE. Mark tells us that they “went out and preached that men should repent.” Do we tell people what they like to hear or what they ought to hear?
6. DELIVERANCE FROM DEMONS. Whether we like it or not, the devil is very active in our world but know that God never gives us an assignment without first equipping us.
7. SACRAMENTS: Mark concluded by saying they “anointed with oil many that were sick and healed them.” There are seven sacraments corresponding to our human life on earth. A sacrament is an outward sign of inward grace ordained by Jesus Christ by which grace is given to our souls. The disciples of Jesus made use of visible elements (anointing oil) coupled with faith and prayer and they performed healing on the sick.
In conclusion, we owe our ministers a great duty which is: PRAYER. Left to themselves, they can do nothing. It is always the grace of God that is at work in them.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, you sent your disciples on mission, fill me with your power and your Holy Spirit that I may not return to you empty-handed. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you.