Posted by The WORD in other words (2009) by Fr Oliver Quilab SVD – Germany
Wednesday 25th Week in Ordinary Time
When the much-vaunted ocean vessel Titanic set sail across the Atlantic, most of the passengers had spent many days preparing for this journey of a lifetime. Passengers brought along what they considered necessary including a wide array of jewelry collections, furniture, artwork, and even servants.
When that fateful disaster struck, one of the rich passengers made her way to the life rafts. Just before embarking, she remembered something in her room she thought she might need. Elbowing herself past the crowds and stewards she fought her way back to her cabin. Brushing aside many of her most valuable possessions, she reached for the one item she knew could be of ultimate importance for the journey ahead—an orange.
“Take nothing for your journey;” this is probably the most controversial command of Christian missionary enterprise. The pragmatist in us would like to think that Jesus would say, “Take some snacks along; gather your assets; launch some fundraising; bring your own tent and sleeping bag; pack some extra clothing; and bring a nice gift for those with whom you will stay.” Instead, Jesus tells the disciples to walk with faith—to go in need of other people’s help.
How are they going to make it without any provisions at all? They would have to depend upon those to whom they are sent. Relying on the mercy of others means they are ultimately relying on the mercy of the One who sent them. They simply cannot do this on their own. Otherwise, they might think they are superstars instead of humble servants.
Mission is God’s mission. We are just messengers dependent upon His providential care; the power and authority come from Him, not from us.
What unnecessary baggage have you lugged along in your past journeys? What is of ultimate importance for your continuing Christian journey ahead? Orange, anyone?
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