Catholic Reflections – Thursday 5 February 2026, Saint Agatha, Virgin, Martyr — week 4, Mark 6:7-13

Short Reflection:

The Commission of the Twelve and the Call to Repentance

This liturgical reading describes a pivotal moment where Jesus transitions from personal ministry to delegating divine authority to His twelve apostles. By sending them out in pairs with almost no physical provisions, the text highlights a shift toward radical reliance on God and the hospitality of strangers rather than material security. The mission’s core purpose is a universal call to repentance, authenticated by miraculous acts of healing and the casting out of evil spirits. Ultimately, the narrative establishes a framework for Christian mission based on simplicity, spiritual power, and accountability, symbolized by the act of shaking dust from one’s feet when the message is rejected.

Long Reflection:

Catholic Reflections – Sent Out Two by Two

Date: Thursday 5 February 2026

Liturgical: Saint Agatha, Virgin, Martyr — on Thursday of week 4 in Ordinary Time

Outline:

• Opening prayer

• Gospel reading

• Reflection on mission, simplicity, and trusting God’s provision

• Key points for discipleship

• Concluding prayer

Gospel Mark 6:7-13

‘He began to send them out.’

At that time: Jesus called the Twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff — no bread, no bag, no money in their belts — but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, ‘Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.’ So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.

Key Points:

1. Jesus sends disciples, not spectators

The Christian life includes mission. We are called to carry Christ into the world through word and action.

2. Two by two means support and accountability

Mission is not meant to be lonely. God strengthens us through companionship, encouragement, and shared faith.

3. Simplicity creates freedom

Traveling light teaches trust. When we cling less to comfort and control, we are more available to God’s work.

4. Repentance is the first message

Before anything else, the Gospel calls us to turn back to God—heart, mind, and life.

5. Rejection doesn’t stop the mission

Shaking off the dust means: don’t carry bitterness. Witness faithfully, then entrust the outcome to God.

Concluding Prayer:

Lord Jesus,

You call us and You send us.

Give us the courage to live as Your disciples on mission.

Teach us to travel lightly—

free from greed, fear, and the need to control.

Help us to trust Your provision

and to rely on the strength You give.

Give us hearts that preach repentance first,

starting with our own lives.

Use our words to bring truth,

and our actions to bring mercy and healing.

When we face rejection,

keep us peaceful and faithful,

never discouraged, never bitter.

Through the prayers of Saint Agatha,

make us brave in suffering,

pure in heart,

and steadfast in love for You.

Amen.

Tags: Catholic, Ordinary Time, Mark 6, Sent Out, Two by Two, The Twelve, Mission, Evangelisation, Repentance, Simplicity, Trust in God, Authority Over Evil, Healing, Anointing with Oil, Discipleship, Saint Agatha, Virgin, Martyr, Prayer, Daily Gospel, Catholic Podcast, Catholic Reflections