He Sent Them Out Two by Two
- James Tissot, ca. 1890
My dear friends,
Mark 6:1-13 has much to teach us about the openness required for spiritual teachings and how our perceptions and prejudices can often cloud our understanding of true wisdom.
On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded.
They said, "Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him?
What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary
and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?"
And they took offense at him.
- Mark 6:1-3
This passage highlights a critical aspect of spiritual receptivity. Jesus, despite his wisdom and miraculous powers, faces skepticism and disbelief in his own hometown. The locals, familiar with his ordinary background, struggle to reconcile his humble origins with his profound teachings. This scenario underscores the challenge of overcoming preconceived notions and the importance of being open to spiritual truths, regardless of their source.
except in their hometown, and among their own kin, and in their own house."
And he could do no deed of power there,
except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them.
And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then he went about among the villages teaching.
- Mark 6:4-6
Jesus' observation about prophets being dishonored in their hometown serves as a poignant reminder of the obstacles spiritual messengers often face. The lack of miracles in Nazareth, attributed to their unbelief, signifies the crucial role of faith and openness in experiencing spiritual wonders. This part of the scripture invites us to reflect on our own openness to new teachings and the ways our disbelief can hinder our understanding and spiritual growth.
and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.
He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff;
no bread, no bag, no money in their belts;
but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics.
- Mark 6:7-9
Here, the simplicity of the disciples' journey is emphasized. By instructing them to carry minimal provisions, Jesus encourages reliance on God and the hospitality of others. This instruction also symbolizes the purity and focus required in spiritual pursuits, underscoring the need for detachment from material possessions and a deep trust in spiritual provisions.
If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you,
as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them."
- Mark 6:10-11
This directive from Jesus reflects the importance of acceptance and receptivity in spiritual teachings. The act of shaking off the dust from their feet symbolizes the rejection of those closed to their message. It teaches a powerful lesson about the need to be open to spiritual wisdom and the consequences of closed-mindedness, both for individuals and communities.
They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
- Mark 6:12-13
The disciples' success in their mission, marked by casting out demons and healing the sick, serves as a testament to the power of faith and the openness of those who received their message. This segment of the scripture reiterates the transformative impact of being receptive to spiritual guidance and the miraculous possibilities that can unfold when one is open to the divine.
Mark 6:1-13 teaches us about the necessity of openness in receiving spiritual teachings. It challenges us to examine our own biases and to be receptive to spiritual wisdom, regardless of its source, reminding us that our spiritual growth is deeply interconnected with our willingness to embrace new perspectives and teachings.