A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mk 6:7-13)
So they went off and preached repentance. The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
Mark tells us in these two short sentences what the Twelve do in response to Jesus’ instructions. He tells them to take nothing with them—”no food, no sack, no money in their belts.” In simple terms, he tells them that whatever house they enter, to remain in peace there until they leave; if they are unwelcome or encounter those who fail to listen, they are to leave and shake the dust from their feet “in testimony against them.” In giving the Twelve authority over unclean spirits, Jesus consecrates them in both words and actions, in preaching repentance and in healing the sick. Mark notes that they drove out many demons and cured many who were sick. Despite their lack of resources for the mission, the Twelve hear and respond powerfully to the call of Jesus.
God, thank you for the mission of the Twelve, those who first received the authority Jesus gave them to preach and expel demons. The divine power Jesus gave them relied on no material dependence or advantage. Help me today be grateful for the early Church and her transmission of the Gospel throughout the ages to the present day. Give me the grace, Lord, to let go of the attachments that I have come to depend on, that keep me from hearing and responding to your call. In your name, I ask for this.
From the responsorial psalm: “‘In your hand are power and might; it is yours to give grandeur and strength to all.'” Lord, you are exalted over all.”
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.