Matthew 10:7-14 NRSVue
7As you go, proclaim the good news, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’, 8Cure the sick; raise the dead; cleanse those with a skin disease; cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. 9Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, 10no bag for your journey, or two tunics, or sandals, or a staff, for laborers deserve their food. 11Whatever town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. 12As you enter the house, greet it. 13If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. 14If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town.
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Some thoughts on this scripture
Reflection
This is a sort of mission statement for the disciples. The central vision of
the statement is to trust in God. The pilgrim puts no trust in home or money,
neither in long term contracts nor in superficial welcomes. Our dependency on
God and trust in God's care gives us a conviction about living in the love
and service of God.
Reflection
It costs me nothing to wish someone well. Can I afford to do otherwise?
Reflection
Jesus tells us to leave what encumbers, not to be slowed down by whatever is
negative. I ask for the help I need to shake off whatever ‘dust’ is not
for my good.