Two by Two – Preaching Through Actions
“The Buddy System” is the term used to describe a practice in Scouting in which individuals must always have another Scout with them when going hiking, camping, boating, swimming, or just about anything else. When working on a merit badge, for example, the Scout must have a buddy or a parent present during meetings with the counselor who will sign off on the badge, signifying the Scout has completed the requirements. Two adults must always be present when adults are working with the Scouts.
The system works well both to protect Scouts and to help them learn the importance of teamwork in accomplishing their goals. It provides an extra layer of safety in case of trouble or unexpected emergency as well. There’s a second adult present to help deal with the problem or get assistance.
I don’t think Jesus particularly thought about his instructions to his followers as The Buddy System, but when it came time for them to go out and begin to share what they had learned from him, he sent them out two by two, each had a buddy with whom to share the venture.
Jesus sent his disciples to call those they met to repentance, to change their way of living so it would more closely match the ways of loving care and acceptance of the Kingdom. He gave them “authority over unclean spirits,” those voices that tormented people or led them to make wrong choices in their actions. They were to take nothing but a walking stick with them and they were allowed to wear sandals, but only take one set of clothing. No suitcases or pack animals for them! They were to depend on the hospitality of others. Some would reject them. Others would welcome them.
Most critically, they were to teach and share what they had seen. In their journey, they anointed the sick and healed many people. They drove out some demons. Others proved too strong, a detail we learn from other writers of the Gospels. They traveled and taught together, as teams. They shared their beliefs and understanding of Jesus’ message. Their teaching included practical actions. Healing and bringing relief to the suffering were the signs their teaching was valid. (Mk 6:7-13)
After their brief time traveling in pairs, they rejoined Jesus and shared their experiences and questions. It was an important time of learning for all. After the Resurrection, as they began to go out to preach and teach, they often continued to go in pairs. Paul and Barnabas, Peter and Mark, for example, were some of the early teams who took the Good News out into the world.
Faith is a communal experience. We are called as individuals, but in that call we enter a community who travel and dream and work together to make a difference here and now. Far more important than theological treatises or long sermons, the loving care, the kindness, the compassion, and the passion with which we work to make the world a better, fairer, more just place for all people is the preaching which will soften hearts and open ears to hear of God’s love.
As we live our lives, we too are called to work together and share in the care of the Earth and of all its inhabitants. Those who have fewer opportunities or face more challenges are no less loved than those whose lives are filled with comfort. As St. Paul reminded the people of Ephesus, God has shared spiritual blessings with all and chosen to bring all of us into union with himself through Jesus. He has shared wisdom with us and leads us to share in the mission of his Son. All of which brings praise for the wonder of his love. (Eph 1:3-14)
When we remember that we are loved and speak out on behalf of others who are unable to speak for themselves, we play a role like that of the shepherd Amos, who traveled from his home in the southern kingdom of Judah to the northern one of Israel, bringing the Lord’s word to the rulers of the north. Amos had experienced firsthand the heavy taxes and oppressive rules imposed on the people of the south by the northern kingdom. He knew the suffering of the people and called for compassion and a lifting of the burden. His words were not welcomed by the authorities, but he spoke them and did not back down. The Lord had called him and sent him to be a prophet, to speak on behalf of the oppressed in the name, the authority and power, of the Lord God. (Am 7:12-15)
The most powerful witnesses are those who work for justice, sharing their vision with others, building communities of practical support and new ways of doing things. They find buddies along the way, to share the vision and double the strength of the effort. Where one person meets a brick wall, another may have the map showing a way through the maze. With the strength of a compassionate community, little by little, the world is changed for the better. Opposition may arise, but ultimately, the change will begin.
As we enter this new week, may we find companions in our journey of faith and step forward with courage and hope. Through our daily lives and activities, may the love of the Lord shine forth into our world.
Readings for the Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Cycle B
