The local hospital of...
Illustration
The local hospital of our city, in conjunction with the clergy association, sponsored a workshop for grieving people who have lost their spouses. Several people spoke about their hurtful experiences and how they have coped with their sorrows. Surprisingly, all of them were somewhat critical of the clergy for failing to be present and provide more spiritual support in their time of need. At the next clergy meeting, some members advocated more workshops for in-service training, and additional classes for theologically and psychologically assisting the grieving people. After some discussion, one minister observed that he felt we were already theologically knowledgeable about suffering and death. "I don't mean to imply we should not continue to study," he said; "but the people were critical not because of our lack of ability, but our availability."
In this Gospel narrative, Jesus is telling his apostles to be available to the people. He sends them out into the neighborhood with their mission messages. Since they bring the Gospel to the people, one of their most needed pieces of apparel is a good pair of sandals. The sandals enable them to yenture forth with the Good News.
The apostles and early disciples did not rent a hall and invite future believers to them; they went out to find them. The sandals symbolize the movement of the message and messenger, to be available to the people.
- McKarns
