Memorial of Saint Agatha, Virgin and Martyr
(II Kings 2:4.10-12; Mark 6:7-13)
Today’s gospel serves as a guide for navigating the
approaching season of Lent. In less than
two weeks our heads will be ashed, and we will pray for mercy. Spiritual masters have recommended that the forty
days be considered a journey from self-indulgence to self-giving.
Jesus sends out the Twelve “two by two.” We are reminded that the Lenten journey need
not be solitary. Sharing our experience
with a couple faithful friends may keep us on track when temptations to abandon
our resolutions arise. Taking “nothing
on the journey” reminds us to sacrifice comforts and delights as a testimony of
our love for God. A walking stick and
sandals are essential for travelling on a rough road in Biblical days. They are represented by Scripture and the
Sacraments for our Lenten journey.
The gospel passage ends saying the apostles drove out many
demons. We want the demons within us like
pride, laziness, and lust to be likewise removed. Following the Lord’s instructions suggested
here, we will progress in prying these demons loose.
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