"Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons.  You received without paying, now give without pay.  Take no gold, nor silver, nor copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a staff .... "

I hesitate to offer a reflection on today's Gospel passage.  I love this reading, and I'd hate to mess it up with needless complications.

What sort of teacher/leader will you follow?  Good leaders don't wrap things in mystery.  I love Jesus' clarity, confidence and common sense.  The missioning described here is simple, direct.  He trusts the good judgment of His people.  He trusts His own wisdom.  He betrays no need to control.  He just wants the job done.  He's clear about the task ahead and advises how to steer around distractions or difficulties.

When I truly prepare for a journey or for a difficult task, I have a clear plan to follow and I am stripped down -- no gold, bag or other extras.

I am fairly certain that I won't be raising the dead or cleansing lepers today.  So what is the mission?  A kind word?  A sincere offer of support to one in need?  A genuine expression of gratitude?  A work or homeplace task?  I'll get it done with Jesus' help.  The extras, distractions, that I need to leave behind include destructive anger, resentments, pride and jealousy.

Thank you, Lord.  I'm ready to go.