Shake the Dust

Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 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. Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.’ They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere. Now Herod the ruler heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. Herod said, ‘John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?’ And he tried to see him. On their return the apostles told Jesus all they had done. He took them with him and withdrew privately to a city called Bethsaida. When the crowds found out about it, they followed him; and he welcomed them, and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed to be cured. Luke 9:1-17

Shake the Dust

O Wondrous Creator who sends all

so that we might serve all in need

help us to know when to stay awhile

and when it is time to turn away.

We ache to make everything right

we want to serve all who we see

we often confuse ego with mission

aching to be the best at our call.

So many streets are closed to us

many doors slammed in our face

yet you are the God who opens hearts

and turns the dust into life again.

Help us to be willing to fail

make us confident in your presence

empower us as  your disciples

love brought from such limited beings. Amen,