I am known as a chronic over-packer when it comes to travel. Something as simple as a weekend away will typically lead to my one carry-on bag being stuffed for any potential travel emergency. For longer international trips, I re-weigh my suitcase so I know how much wiggle room I have within the fifty pound weight limit. I want to bring it all with me: my favorite outfits, cutest shoes, good books, my pretty eye mask, you name it, it is probably already crammed into one of the pockets.
I wonder what it must have been like for the disciples Jesus sent out in pairs in today's Gospel, Luke 10:1-12. My over-packing human side looks at the situation and thinks, "Was Jesus nuts when He sent them out with nothing? I don't know if I could do that! What is the point?" Then I take a step back, and look at the scene through the eyes of Jesus.
When the disciples took nothing with them, it created a radical dependence on God for their journey. Holding onto nothing illustrated their need for God's provision and prompting. Needy is a word no one wants used to describe them in relationships. But in our walk with Jesus, shouldn't we be needy with Him?
The more intimate relationship we develop with Jesus, the more we come to see our neediness for Him. God desires that we would grow in radical dependence on Him in every area of our lives. He wants us to need Him for absolutely everything, just like the pairs of disciples going out on mission.
Let's try to live each day a little more dependent on Jesus than the previous day. To grow in our neediness for God. To not overpack for the journey as we walk with God.
And maybe when our hands are not clutched around bags and suitcases, they can be open to receive from God at moment's notice. Let's try to live more like that.
Today, let's pray the Our Father looking at the Catechism and understanding how to be radically dependent on God.
Patty Breen is a full-time lay minister who finds joy in running, strong cups of coffee, and all things Ignatian spirituality. A Midwestern gal from the mitten state, she is constantly learning to find grace in all things. She is passionate about ministry, writing, a great lipstick color, and smiling is her favorite. Find out more about her here.
Walk With Us this Advent
Get Your Prayerful Planner
