When we go for a holiday or a trip, some of us would pack so many things, since some of us feel it is better to have more than enough clothes or accessories so that we would not run out of clean clothes to wear or certain items which we feel may be necessary and may not be so easy to find at the destination we are going, or that purchasing such items could be expensive. But sometimes, we find that we end up using a lot less than we carry, and we may have to lug around so many things, making our journey or trip cumbersome, or we may worry about things going missing or stolen. This is why we should consider only bringing what we really need so that we can enjoy our holiday and trip with minimal distraction or issues.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is asking us not to worry too much about bringing so many things, since He tells us: “Carry no purse, no haversack, no sandals. Salute no one on the road. Whatever house you go into, let your first words be, “Peace to this house!” And if a man of peace lives there, your peace will go and rest on him; if not, it will come back to you. Stay in the same house, taking what food and drink they have to offer, for the labourer deserves his wages; do not move from house to house.” What is Jesus trying to tell us? He is trying to tell us that our focus is not to be too concerned about what we need to bring with us, but our duty and responsibility in proclaiming the Good News. Jesus is reminding us not to get distracted with other things, since proclaiming the Good News should take all our effort and attention. Are we able to do our part, do our best and leave it in the hands of the Lord, knowing that He will provide for us and care for us?