Jesus instructs his disciples into discipleship. After speaking to them about what a disciple must not take while going for ministry (Matthew 10: 1-15), Jesus also tells them what to carry with them (Matthew 10: 16-18).
Be innocent like a dove: have personal integrity as an asset, and wear it as your shield and refuge. That is the sole capital for the distant journey. Jesus has not asked us to carry a lot of things, but only one -personal integrity; therefore we have no option to compromise on it.Be shrewd like the serpents: Everything out there is capable of stealing your innocence, you are like a sheep amidst wolves; to maintain your innocence you must be prudent like a serpent. Serpents don’t sleep, they only slumber. Be alert like a serpent. Vivekananda began his famous Chicago address by saying, ‘Be awakened’.
Serpents do not attack people, but avoid them. As they get an alarm they withdraw. Do not run into conflicts and arguments. Even if they are attacked they try to save its head, try not to get hit on the head. As soon as you are in conflict, or in arguments, listening ceases; we are just busy thinking how to counter. Matthew’s gospel was written in 60, and 70 AD. Those were early persecution times. Matthew was trying to caution them that as a serpent saves its head, make sure your faith is not hit and killed; if your faith is safe like a serpent regains strength and life because its head is safe, a Christian also can regain his/her faith and life. Hang on; everything eventually turns out for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28). This was the verse that kept Bobby Jose surviving during his days of depression.
Notes taken during my annual retreat, preached by Bobby Jose Kattikad, Capuchin.
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