Memorial of St. Agatha, Virgin & Martyr
Today in our gospel reading Jesus sends his apostles out and tells them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick. What significance might this reveal for the Twelve, and does it also provide guidance for us today?
In the reading from Mark, Jesus calls his apostles and sends them out two by two. Jesus instructs them that the only thing they should bring is a walking stick- no food, no sack, no money in their belts and no second tunic. They were to rely on the hospitality of the people where they stayed and “shake the dust” from the places that did not welcome them. As I reflected on this passage, I wondered why a walking stick was part of the “uniform” for Jesus’ disciples.
When investigating “walking sticks” used during the time of Jesus, there were different kinds of sticks. Some of the walking sticks were longer and used in shepherding. Some of these sticks were also used to help while traveling in rocky terrain particularly for those who were older and needed extra support. There were shorter, sturdier sticks that were used to help fend off predators and provide some protection while on the road. Finally, some of these sticks (staffs) were viewed as symbols of a person’s authority (e.g. Moses and his staff used to help part the Red Sea.)
I can imagine that the walking sticks that the disciples carried provided some protection from the dangers on the road, but I wonder if Jesus may have wanted them to carry these as a sign of the authority that Jesus imparted to them as His followers. These walking sticks also were visible reminders to the apostles that it was God that was the provider for all that they needed. It was not through their strength or their power, but it was God’s grace that brought the healing and wholeness to all those they encountered on their journey.
Jesus also sends us forth, and He invites us to rely on God for all that we need. I believe it is our faith in Christ that is our “walking stick.” Our faith can provide protection from the dangers that we face along the journey. It is also Christ and our belief in Him that also allows us to receive God’s grace and therefore the authority to act like Christ in thought, word and deed. Most importantly, a deep faith helps us recognize God’s love and presence throughout our daily lives, and this allows us to believe that God can work through us to bring healing to this world. Like the trekking poles that I use when I hike, my faith helps me climb through the ups and downs of daily living knowing that I am supported by Christ at all times.
Spend some time quietly reflecting on your faith. Lean on this gift of belief in God as you navigate the all the experiences of your life, and allow gratitude for God’s loving care and protection to be a constant response throughout the day. Be mindful of the ways that you are being sent forth to share Christ’s healing and love with those you encounter, as you bring your “walking stick” of faith on your journey.
—Marylynn Herchline