Mark 6:8
He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick -no food, no sack, no money in their belts.
You've been given a task at work: to communicate the mission statement to an audience of coworkers. You know that there are many ways to convey your message. You could print out cards, hand out pens, post the message all over the workplace. You could make announcements over the PA system or leave eye-catching posters. Some might record a video or do an interactive exercise. Some of your audience may not listen, not like your message, or your delivery. Others will give it the proper attention, maybe mock it or hear it but may not live to the expectations of the mission statement.
Looking at today's gospel reading from Mark, Jesus tells the twelve to go out in pairs and deliver his "mission statement." Jesus gives them clear instructions on what to take in their journey. He doesn't give them a power point, slick videos, clever sayings, or artistic posters. They have no communication budget. They must spread the mission through their testimony and "walking the walk." Jesus recognizes that not everyone will be accepting, which can be disheartening to the apostles. So in a symbolic gesture, they are instructed to wipe the dust from their feet of the place where they are not welcomed.
So how does this relate to you? Don't be discouraged when you hear people in the media or even in your workplace or community, deriding Christians, calling us names, mocking us or showing little respect for our values. Instead, turn the other cheek, show mercy and compassion. By doing so you're giving your personal witness that you are a Christian and you aren't going to be swayed or brought down by their comments. Pray for the Holy Spirit to keep you strong in the faith and that by your example, you can bring others closer to Christ.
