Making Disciples, Two By Two

"(Jesus) called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority

over the unclean spirits. ⁸He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff;

no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; ⁹but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics.

—Mark 6:7-9

Summer is now here…in all its heat and humidity, and many of us are considering a trip to a place that’s cooler, or drier, or at least where there are family whom we miss seeing during the year! But could we go on the journey Jesus invited His disciples to undertake?

I know when I plan a trip I usually fill a large suitcase and then also carry a smaller duffel. The disciples were urged to take nothing except a walking stick. It’s hard to imagine going on a trip of unknown duration to places you’ve never been without a map or a compass to guide you. The disciples were simply sent out, two by two, and they expected to be guided by the other person and by God’s Spirit.

This summer, whether you are “sent” one-by-one or two-by-two, consider how God wants you to behave: as someone who listens for God’s voice, and then responds fully to all that God commands.

Jesus commanded his first Disciples to go out to proclaim, heal and anoint:

¹²So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. ¹³They cast out

many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them. (Mark 6:12-13)

So if you are able, please consider the open invitation Jesus gives us.

And be “a remarkable disciple of a remarkable Savior.”

I look forward to greeting you at the church door and in other places where we meet for ministry,

Pastor Paul