Someone Else Will Do This (Mk 6:7-13) by Paul Westendorf

06 Feb Someone Else Will Do This (Mk 6:7-13) by Paul Westendorf

“Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits.” ~ Mk 6:7-13 (full readings)

Paul’s Reflections:  These verses describe the first time Jesus sent forth the Apostles to preach.  Some immediate questions come to mind.  Why send the Apostles?  After all, Jesus was the “Subject Matter Expert”, couldn’t He just do it?  I’m sure they were wondering that.  Also, this isn’t the ark so why two by two?  To me, these verses are another clear example of Jesus’ expectation for us to be a people of action.  A large issue today is many people believe that as long as they go to church or don’t openly break any of God’s commandments, they are in no great danger.  Jesus sent the Apostles.  He wants us to go out and be seen; to be an example of His love, caring, and forgiveness to the world.  This is not an easy task especially in the abortion battle, but we must be visible.  Our culture today takes no action as an affirmation that something is ok.  If you have children you’ve heard them say “Well, you didn’t tell me I couldn’t do it, so I did.”  If we do not act, if we do not journey out and be visible, we are saying the atrocity of abortion is ok.  As we pass the 41st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, it can make you weary thinking of all the people and hours that have been put into the fight.  Will it ever end?  Oh wait, what was that about “two by two” again?  Let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds.  “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another.” (Heb 10: 24-25)  Jesus in His infinite wisdom knew His disciples would face difficulties and should work together.  Jesus calls us to act and to act together.  He knew that getting to heaven is a team sport.
* Paul Westendorf is Chapters Coordinator of the National LIFE Runners Team.  His is married to Jacquie and lives in Sioux Falls, SD.   Full bio.

Faith Challenge:  “Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.” (1 John 3:18)

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, LifeNews, American Family, Vatican, Project Rachel..
.
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.
.
Feast Day:  Saint Paul Miki

Faith Quote:  “Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.”  ~ 1 John 3:18

Through Christ our Lord,
Paul
Jer 1:5