2/6/2025 (Thursday) Today’s Gospel reading: Mark 6:7-13

7 Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits.
8 He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick no food, no sack, no money in their belts.
9 They were, however, to wear sandals but not a second tunic.
10 He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there.
11 Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.”
12 So they went off and preached repentance.
13 The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

2/6/2025 (Thursday) Today’s Gospel reflection / sermon / homily: Mark 6:7-13

Jesus calls His twelve disciples and sends them out two by two and they obey, preaching repentance, driving out demons, and healing the sick. This Gospel passage teaches us three powerful lessons about faith, trust, and obedience.

1. God Equips Those He Calls
Jesus did not send His disciples out empty-handed; He gave them power over evil spirits. The task before them was daunting—they were to confront darkness, heal the sick, and preach the message of repentance. Yet, Jesus assured them that He had already given them what they needed.

Many times, we hesitate to step out in faith because we feel inadequate. We fear we are not talented enough, strong enough, or wise enough. But God does not call the equipped—He equips the called. When He gives us a mission, He also gives us the ability to fulfill it. His power works through our weaknesses, making us effective in ways we could never imagine.

If God has placed a burden on your heart, whether it’s sharing His word, serving in a ministry, or helping someone in need, trust that He will provide the strength and wisdom to accomplish it.

2. Faith Requires Dependence on God
Jesus told His disciples to take only the essentials—no extra food, money, or clothing. Why? Because He wanted them to learn to rely completely on God’s provision. Their journey was not about comfort but about trust.

In our lives, we often strive for security. We want savings in the bank, detailed plans, and backup options. While planning is not wrong, our ultimate security should come from God. When we rely too much on material things, we risk losing sight of our true source of provision.

Have you ever felt God leading you into a situation where you had to trust Him fully? Maybe it was a career change, a mission opportunity, or a difficult life challenge. Just as He provided for the disciples, He will provide for you. Faith is not about seeing the whole path—it’s about taking the next step, knowing that God will meet you there.

3. Not Everyone Will Accept the Message
Jesus prepared the disciples for rejection. He told them that if a town refused to welcome them, they should shake the dust off their feet and move on. This was a symbolic act, showing that they had done their part and were not responsible for others’ unbelief.

As believers, we will encounter resistance. Some will mock our faith, reject our message, or even turn away from us. But rejection should not discourage us. It is not our job to change hearts; only God can do that. Our role is to be faithful in sharing His word and living as His witnesses.

If you have ever faced rejection for your faith—perhaps from family, friends, or colleagues—remember that even Jesus and His disciples experienced the same. Keep moving forward, trusting that God will lead you to those whose hearts are ready to receive Him.

The Gospel narrative above reminds us that when Jesus calls, He equips. When He sends, He provides. And when we share His truth, we may face rejection but we must remain faithful.

Where is God calling you to step out in faith today? Whatever it is, trust that He will go before you. Walk in obedience, rely on His provision, and boldly proclaim His truth. You are not alone. He is with you every step of the way.

Go here to read further Gospel reflection.