In today’s reading, Jesus sends 72 of his disciples out into the towns and villages that He intended to visit. These 72 disciples were to inform the people that He was coming. They were to prepare the way for Him.

Jesus then gives the disciples instructions for this journey. He tells His disciples to pack lightly for the journey. They should not take any money, luggage, or sandals. Jesus tells them they are to trust that God will provide for them.

How the disciples react to Jesus’ statement! If we were sent on a journey and we were told to take nothing with us except the clothes we were wearing, how would we react? In all likelihood  we would be tempted to pack a “little” bag just in case we needed something!

Today Jesus is sending us forth to preach the “Good News.” He gives us the same instructions that He gave the Apostles: “take nothing with you.”

All we are to take with us is the “Good News” of Jesus. It is appropriate that on this day  we also remember St Valentine. May  the love of the Lord with us this day  as we  go about our daily tasks.

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