Traveling Light in a Heavy World

Reflection Date: February 05, 2026 Thursday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of Saint Agatha, Virgin and Martyr
Daily Readings: 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12; Mark 6:7-13

Children of God: Saint Agatha was a young woman from Sicily who lived in the third century. She came from a noble family but chose to dedicate her life to Christ. 

Because of her faith, she rejected the advances of a powerful Roman official. This decision led to her arrest and imprisonment. She endured severe torture yet refused to renounce her faith. 

According to tradition, she prayed even in suffering and forgave her persecutors. 

She is remembered as a virgin and martyr who stood firm despite fear. Her name later became associated with protection against fire and disaster. 

Devotion to her spread quickly across the early Church. Her life shows that even quiet courage can become a powerful witness.

In the gospel story of Mark where Jesus sends out the Twelve apostles two by two, they are told to bring almost nothing, to depend on hospitality, and to move on when rejected. 

From the story of Saint Agatha and the sending of the twelve, what are our inspirations for today?

First, God’s mission relies on providence.

Jesus instructs the disciples to take nothing for the journey except a walking stick, no bread, no bag, and no money (Mark 6:8). 

This command forces them to rely not on preparation alone, but on God’s providence. God becomes their primary resource.

By traveling light, they remain open to people and places they encounter. Dependence on God creates space for authentic relationships and genuine witness.

Saint Agatha lived this trust in a different way. She had no power to protect herself, yet she entrusted her life to God.

Second, our faith does not make us immune from rejection. 

Jesus actually prepares the disciples for rejection, telling them to leave and shake the dust off their feet when not welcomed (Mark 6:11). 

Rejection is part of the mission. The response is not anger, but choosing to continue, for their effectiveness does not depend on people’s acceptance, but on God’s grace. 

Children of God: The gospel reminds us that discipleship is not about comfort, but commitment. 

The Church moves forward through witnesses, not only strategies.