Jesus sends out the twelve

Mark 6:6b-13

While on a short course exploring what it means to follow Jesus, my friend and I joked with each other – not only were we now reading the Bible, we had become aware of different versions of it. The Bible is the best-selling book of all time and the best-selling book every year. Apparently, it is never listed on the top number of books sold each year as it is always the highest!

Whichever Bible version you are reading from, Jesus sending out the twelve is quite a thing. Back in chapter 3 verses 15-19 Jesus particularly appoints twelve followers to work with him. Now he sends them out and gives them authority over impure spirits, the ability to preach, drive out demons, anoint and heal the sick. Alongside this Jesus gives them specific instructions. Sometimes I find it helpful to read the modern language of The Message paraphrase of the bible:

8-9 ‘Don’t think you need a lot of extra equipment for this. You are the equipment. No special appeals for funds. Keep it simple. 10 ‘And no luxury inns. Get a modest place and be content there until you leave.
11 ‘If you’re not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Don’t make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way.’ (MSG)

We too are the equipment. We are Jesus’s hands on earth. Jesus gives us his authority to share our testimony and heal the sick. We also are sent out to be God’s presence in our world today, to sprinkle it with love, joy, peace and patience. We can be bold as we step out in faith because we do not go alone, Jesus walks each step with us.