Daily Catholic Lectio. Thu, 6 February ’25. Apostleship as discipleship!

Daily Catholic Lectio

Thu, 6 February ‘25

Fourth Week in Ordinary Time – Thursday

Hebrews 12:18-19, 21-24. Psalm 48. Mark 6:7-13

Apostleship as discipleship!

The flip side of ‘being called’ is ‘being sent.’

Jesus, who moves from place to place preaching, performing mighty deeds, and visiting His hometown, includes His disciples in His mission in today’s Gospel passage. He sends them on their mission – two by two – creating a bond with himself and with each other. Jesus recognizes that His disciples are not just followers but active participants in His mission. He teaches us the importance of sharing responsibilities and integrating others into the work.

In our own professions—whether teaching, office work, or pastoral ministry—we often tend to work alone. Our work becomes our identity, and we hesitate to share it with others. Sometimes, we avoid sharing tasks because we assume others are less capable. At times, we fear they might outperform us and gain recognition.

Only those who can humbly say, ‘I am nothing, I am not indispensable!’ are truly capable of sharing their work with others.

The disciples preach as Jesus does. They perform mighty works as Jesus does. Yet, unlike many, Jesus harbours no sense of competition, fear, or jealousy.

Three lessons for us:

(a) Two by two

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labour. If either of them falls, one can help the other up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). The world today encourages individualism. While solitude may benefit time management and efficiency, it can also lead to exhaustion and frustration. We must recognize that companionship strengthens our abilities and be willing to journey with others. The other will become a mirror to us to reflect who we are.

(b) Word minimalism

Jesus did not prepare a detailed script for the disciples. He did not teach them what to say or how to say it. The only message they proclaimed was, “Repent.” In today’s world, words are abundant—overflowing as texts, images, and videos. It is wise to reduce unnecessary words and communicate simply and powerfully.

(c) Minimalist living

Jesus instructs the disciples not to carry a bag, food, or money, inviting them to depend on God and others. Self-sufficiency can become a temptation—when our needs are fully met, we may distance ourselves from God and people. Jesus calls us to live with only what is necessary and to detach from excess.

In the first reading, the author contrasts two mountains: Mount Sinai, representing punishment, and Mount Zion, symbolizing mercy. We are called to live with mercy and compassion, like those who dwell on Mount Zion.

The psalmist rejoices in God’s presence among His people (cf. Psalm 48).

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy