Jesus sent His disciples out on mission as follows: "Take nothing for the journey, neither walking staff nor traveling bag; no bread, no money" (Lk 9:3). The disciples would be provided for by their heavenly Father, Who knew all they needed before they could ask (Mt 6:32) and Who provided everything for them (Mt 6:30). Since God was their Provider, the disciples were free to concentrate on proclaiming the good news of the Gospel.
Our central battle is one of faith. Will we or won't we believe that God will provide for us? If we believe the Lord will personally provide for us, we won't need to steal food and thereby provide for ourselves. Jesus asked His disciples: " 'When I sent you on mission without purse or traveling bag or sandals, were you in need of anything?' 'Not a thing,' they replied" (Lk 22:35).
However, if we don't believe Jesus and His promise that the Father provides our needs, we will steal or do whatever it takes to satisfy our needs (Prv 30:9). One of Jesus' disciples, Judas, lost this battle of faith. Judas did steal to provide for his wants (Jn 12:6). In so doing, he profaned the name of his God (Prv 30:9) and eventually betrayed Jesus at Gethsemani (Mt 26:49).
Daily, constantly, renew your faith in God as Provider and in Jesus as Lord. "Trust in Him at all times" (Ps 62:9).
| PRAYER: | Lord, "I do believe! Help my lack of trust!" (Mk 9:24) |
| PROMISE: | "Jesus now called the Twelve together and gave them power and authority to overcome all demons." –Lk 9:1 |
| PRAISE: | Sts. Cosmas and Damian, both doctors, provided free medical care to the poor, and were hated by the governor and emperor. Despite opposition, they faithfully served God in this ministry. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College