Change is very much a part of life, a part that keeps us moving forward, yet we seem to be programmed to rebel against it. We like knowing what to expect as having that knowledge helps us to better survive. Yet it is too easy to fall into old patterns which limit how much we can learn and grow.
In today's Gospel, Jesus sends out seventy-two disciples in a manner which they were probably not accustomed. They had to rely entirely on God providing for them through the people they visited. Unlike this weeks camping trip where Rowen and I are each bringing two bags, a tent, sleeping bags, mats, chairs, and a cooler, these disciples were to carry no bags nor even wear sandals.
Certainly, being placed into such a position would change the way these disciples viewed themselves, their mission, and those they came across. This radical change of view would doubtless make them more sympathetic to those who had a little or less than they did. It would put them in positions that would make them reevaluate their own beliefs and knowledge.
They returned rejoicing at their experience. So to do we often find ourselves growing from adversity. Often, being put in a position that is so different from what we are accustomed helps us realize things about ourselves that we would not have otherwise imagined. New experiences and changes to our daily lives can bring us unexpected rewards.