Your Journey – Reflection on Luke 9:1-6
For over half my faith journey, I thought “take nothing for your journey” meant Jesus was talking about physical actions. Now, I also look for the additional spiritual meaning of what Jesus says. Spiritually, taking nothing means I do not need my worldly self, even if the journey is to turn to the person next to me for a conversation. Once worldly barriers fall away, it becomes easier to be vulnerable. As humble Christians, we can open our hearts to the opportunity for spiritual healing of others within our encounters. As you do so, you become more at ease with experiencing the invitation in your journey to share Jesus not just by doing but also by quietly and subtly being present. From experience, removing worldliness from encounters lets Jesus become visible to the souls of others.
The Exhortation to the Apostles by James Tissot
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Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Luke 9:1-6 – Scripture*
The Mission of the Twelve
Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3 He said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money—not even an extra tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. 5 Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Luke 9:1-6 Reflection – Nothing for your Journey.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Luke 9 passage.
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