The WORD today (See http://usccb.org/bible/readings/020614.cfm) reminds me how important it is to travel light.
He instructed them to take nothing for the journey
but a walking stick--
no food, no sack, no money in their belts.
They were, however, to wear sandals
but not a second tunic.
but a walking stick--
no food, no sack, no money in their belts.
They were, however, to wear sandals
but not a second tunic.
Jesus instructed his disciples to bring just what is necessary, the very basics. He told them not to take anything except a walking stick.
Why a walking stick…?
In those times, it was not unusual for people to have a walking stick. People, especially those advanced in age and those who often travel, have a walking stick. It helps them since they travel through far distances. It gives them additional strength by acting sort of their third leg, or something that would support their weary legs so as not to take all the weight of the body. It is also used to protect themselves from stray animals as they travel. Also, we see in the bible God using the walking stick or staff to perform great things - Moses parted the red sea, led Israelites to victories in wars, and drew water out of a stone all by using a staff or a stick.
How light the disciples must have felt in that trip. No extra things to weigh them down.
However, in today’s day and age, we feel that as though we need a lot of things to survive. There are a lot of gadgets, smartphones, portable battery source and even internet, that we feel we need with us every time. When we travel, we bring with us a lot of these things. That’s why sometimes, instead of enjoying our journey and focusing on it, our attention is divided because we have to think of what we brought, making sure nothing gets lost or left behind, checking if we have battery, and spare battery, to take pictures; making sure there’s signal for mobile and internet use, etc.
This is exactly what Jesus did not want to happen to his apostles. He wanted them to remain simple so they could focus on their task. More than that, they wanted them to have faith that God will provide as they stay focused on God. Divine Providence.
As I look at my things, what are the extras that seem to be necessities to me? As I look at my life, what are the extras that seem to be necessities? What are weighing me down? What things, people or habits are hindering me from focusing on God and on the task he has for me? What are hindering me from fully trusting and surrendering to God? Am I willing to let go?
May we be challenged and see what things we do not really need, the things that are taking our focus away from God and the task he has in store for us. Let us develop our faith in God’s providence – he still provides, until now!
Father God,
Thank you for today. Thank you for reminding us the importance of staying light – to rid ourselves of anything and everything that prevents us from focusing on you and from doing what you want us to do. Lord, there are a lot of distractions in life, and I ask that you help me keep my focus on you. I am sorry for allowing myself to be distracted, and for considering as necessary some of the extras in life. Help me have faith and travel light as I take this journey towards you. I have faith that you will always provide as long as I focus on you and put you first. Amen.
Blessed day!
In Christ,
-g-
Ps
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