Sent Out

He left that place and came to his home town, and his disciples followed him. On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, ‘Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?’ And they took offence at him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honor, except in their hometown, and among their own kin, and in their own house.’ And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then he went about among the villages teaching. He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, ‘Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.’ So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them. Mark 6:1-13

Tomorrow morning, we fly back to Boston after a week at the House of Bishops in Texas. It has been warm and muggy for several days here. I have been here enough times over the years to feel at home, but it is not home. I am ready to be home and among the people of Massachusetts. I am reminded that we never are sent out alone, as God always provides companions to go with us. We gather here to work together and remind one another we have companions in the ministry. Sometimes those who know us best at home might not take us seriously, but we know we are sent, and that is enough.

Wise Creator, you send us out to serve

surrounding us with traveling companions 

blessing us with your spirit and power

so the world might know your love.

Too often we try to be the show's star

when it is always and ever your love

we try to go it alone and then cry out

forgetting that your presence is always near.

Help us to rejoice in our companions on the way

those who give us shelter and give us support

those who make it possible so we might be sent

and your love which sustains us every day. Amen.