Stay Where You are Welcomed

Stay Where You Are Welcomed
 
The Lord told them to “stay where you are welcomed.”  People who want to listen to you may well be called by God to do so.  Build upon what is positive.  We have been given so much to share with others. We have the saving message of the Gospel.  We have the Word of God to read and inspire us. We have the teachings of the faith that come to us from the Apostles, and our Creed and Tradition to reflect upon. We have our worship and praise to express. We have the Sacraments to celebrate and deepen our faith and sense of community. We have our personal prayer life to cultivate. All these things are deserving of being shared with those who want to listen.

Also, in staying where we are welcomed, we, therefore, do not choose the environment. We are called to trust in the providence of God in this matter. The Lord cautioned them “Do not move from place to place.” We are not called to stay in a humble place or a fine place. He meant for us not to be seeking better accommodations, but rather accept a humble home or dwelling if that is what is offered.  We could offend the people by rejecting their initial offering. The problem of favoritism could also arise if the disciples socialized more with wealthy people rather than humble people. The matter of detachment from things and focusing on the purpose of the mission is the issue here.  We should not focus on getting a better living circumstance. We should remain focused on our ministry.
 
Reflection Questions:

• Does remaining in one location help us to focus on our purpose, and does it help us to depend on God’s providence?
• How do we build on the positive in people’s lives?
• What do we have to share with others spiritually?