Equipped for the Journey (Lk 9:2-3) by Alice Chapman

25 Sep Equipped for the Journey (Lk 9:2-3) by Alice Chapman

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (FB), provided by LIFE Runners (FB). Leaders. Guest Authors.
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“…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.'” ~ (Lk 9:2-3) (full readings)
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Alice’s Reflections: Can you imagine how Jesus’ instructions must have sounded to the disciples?  Journeys during that time were accomplished primarily on foot through desolate areas where wild animals and thieves preyed upon vulnerable travelers.  To not take any provisions, not even food or an extra pair of sandals, must have seemed at best foolhardy, if not downright dangerous. Yet we know the disciples bravely set out, overcoming adversity, proclaiming the gospel, and successfully carried out the mission to which Jesus appointed them.  You see, God always equips his followers for the tasks he calls them to do.  When we LIFE Runners participate in a local or large national race, or even when we wear our t-shirt to run errands, we take nothing but ourselves into the world, proclaiming the precious gift of life.  And while we may not meet any wild animals or thieves along the way, we surely meet with opposition, which is, at times, hostile.  And just as Jesus instructed His disciples to respond peacefully by simply leaving that unwelcoming place, we are also called to respond lovingly and peacefully to those who defend abortion rights, and seek understanding and dialogue so that their hearts may turn.  We were sent on this journey and God most certainly equips us for it.
* Alice is a public health officer in the U.S. Air Force and is stationed at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, OH.  She and her husband Glenn have a son.  She serves as the Dayton LIFE Runners Chapter Leader.

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Faith Challenge: If you have only been wearing your LIFE Runners jersey when you exercise, commit to wearing it around town this week when you shop for groceries or run other errands.  Watch how God puts people in your path who need to see your shirt and reflect on its message.
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Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, LifeNews, American Family, Vatican, Project Rachel.
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Our Prayers: Pray LIFE Runners Creed to end abortion.  Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, unceasingly. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.
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Feast Day: St. Elzear and Blessed Delphina.
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Faith Quote: “The feeling remains that God is on the journey, too.” ~ Saint Teresa of Avila
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Through Christ Our Lord,
Alice
Jer 29:11-13