Toward Mission as Servants
We set off for Mission thinking we need much luggage ~ but what do we need to carry with us? Jesus takes the trouble to describe his disciples’ luggage: "Take nothing with you for the journey, no stick, no traveling bag, no food, no money, not even a change of clothes. When you are welcomed to a home, stay there until you leave that town" (Lk. 9:3-4). The missionary needs the attitude of the servant ~ in the Gospel, Jesus explains the virtue of the servant ~ the servant has to be:
Available. The servant who is available is the one who is attentive and always ready to change or modify his own plans according to the circumstances or according to his Lord's will.
Human. Jesus had a profound attitude of caring for individuals ~ he reaches the heart of a person through caring and compassion. He asks nothing in exchange and does not even request that his beneficiaries become his disciples. Jesus is attentive to the individual, gives him the time he needs, listens, encourages, loves.
Prayerful. Mission is carried on through much prayer, we are taught this when we see the privileged time Jesus spent talking to his Father concerning his mission. St. Comboni spoke of "Hands joined in prayer" ~ they are not busy working, grabbing something but are resting in God ~ they are doing Mission, that bears fruit in abundance!
Prophetic. A prophet goes to where the people live and walks with them, becoming one with them. The prophet is above all a person of hope ~ restores hope, sows hope along the journey ~ to new horizons, to new pastures.
Wise. A wise servant is concerned to put God in the forefront, standing firm and trustful in difficult moments, knowing the Mission is God's.
A Friend. I do not call you servants anymore, but friends ~ Jesus considers his followers companions of Mission ~ he offers the gift of friendship. Friends work for love, without being worried about gains or schedules... they identify themselves with the concern of the friend.
It is clear that the missionaries luggage does not consist in things or resources ~ though useful and necessary ~ but rather in virtues!
