[_01_] In this Gospel, we read instructions to
the 12 apostles who are traveling and receive a list of things to bring, a list
of things not to bring. It’s a traveler’s advisory for their journey/jornada.
In our own journeys –
especially for international journeys and for airport security -- we also have
to care of some of the same things mentioned in the Gospel
·
belts
·
money in our belts, metal coins in our pockets
·
food and/or water we are carrying
·
carry on bags and extra clothing
·
shoes
We know that our carry on baggage must fit in the
overead compartment or beneath the seat in front of us. Put the tray table in
the upright position. Keep your seatbelt fastened until the captain indicates
that it is safe to move about the cabin.
[_02_] Following these rules, we surrender at the
airport to the agents, flight attendants, pilots.
If we want to fly United
Airlines, then we have to follow the rules of UA. It’s very simple, direct,
explicit.
[_03_] However,
the Gospel does not offer “travel advisory” for suitcases … but rather for the
person carrying the suitcase.
In this Gospel, Jesus is
emphasizing the importance of detachment, simplicity.
And, as we read elsewhere…
“do not lay up for yourselves
treasure in heaven…” (Matthew 6:19)
Thus, when we for example,
sacrifice generously for another person without regard for reward, we are
laying up treasure in heaven.
This may mean putting down my
baggage to carry the bag of someone else.
Or, caring for someone who is
aging, sick.
[_04_] The Lord is
also teaching us about repentance and penance.
Is it more difficult for a rich
man/woman/family or a wealthy executive or celebrity to enter the Kingdom of
God?
Yes, they can be tempted by
many spirits of evil. Comfort itself can
be an idol.And, that idol is more easily stored in the overead compartment in
First Class.
So, in this Gospel, Jesus sends
his apostles out with few possessions. But, he does send them out two by two,
together, in relationships.
This companionship, love is
their true travel security.
[_05_] Also, this simplicity,
on the other hand, is meant to help the apostle –a and help us – to be humble,
to repent of our sins.
And, to grow in humility and repentance
without regard for our security and comfort.
[_06_] In
particular, do I repent of my sins only in the hope of a reward. Of course, we
do so for a heavenly reward.
But, do I want something more
tangible, immediate?
The desire for reward influences
my choices in transportation – whether we
are buying a car or a plane ticket.
Who will give me zero % APR, a
free upgrade, or double frequent flyer miles?
[_07_] Often, we are willing – able – encouraged to repent
when some valuable reward awaits.
For example, a child is
persuaded to apologize. Then, in return, he can go outside and play or eat his
favorite food.
In this forgiveness is not
valued. Rather, forgiveness is a traveler’s cheque or currency which I exchange or convert into
something that I really want.
[_08_] The Lord encourages us to see penance as a
step forward rather than backward.
Of course, in order to repent,
or reflecto n my own life, I will examine something in the past. This will be a
meditation, an examination of conscience and examination of my actions. But,
penance is not simply a travel restriction or delay.
However, in doing penance ,
confessing my sins, I will also be moving forward.
In this the Lord is asking me
to turn my attention away from someone / something I envy. Or want to possess.
Or, to admit my fault simply
because I want to be free, because I want to turn back to God.
Repentance is a journey, an
invitation to keep moving, to draw closer to God, and to move away from things
that may be too heavy to carry physically or spiritually. [_fin_]
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