From
Meditations on the Life of Our Lord
by J. Nouet, S.J.
Seventeenth Week After Pentecost - Thursday
1st Point. "And into whatsoever city, or town you shall enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and there abide till you go thence." (Matt., x. 11.) You must lead your neighbour to God by edifying conversation and the example of a holy life. Missioners should have no attachment to the goods of the earth, nor a preference to any particular place of residence. They are not to consider whether those they meet are rich, noble, or liberal; but rather what are their spiritual necessities. "He that receiveth you," says Jesus Christ, "receiveth me; and that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me." (Matt., x. 40.) The Son of God cherishes his disciples with such affection, that he recompenses those who assist them, as if their charity were exercised towards himself. How consoling to those who, though precluded from any apostolic functions, may yet participate in their merits , by co-operating with those who are called to this glorious work!
2nd Point. The children of God should be, like their divine Master, the harbingers of peace wherever they enter. Therefore, he forbids them to carry in their journeys either gold, the cause of discord, or a staff, the instrument of vengeance. "How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, of them that bring glad tidings of good things." (Rom., x. 15.) Weary not in labouring for the peace and salvation of your brethren. Your recompense depends not on the fruit, but on the purity of intention and ardour with which you seek the greater glory of God.
3rd Point. "And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, go forth from thence, shake off the dust from your feet for a testimony to them." (Mark, vi. 11.) This to testify to those who reject them, that they offer not their services through interested motives — and as a declaration to obdurate sinners.
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