Our Inside Joke
Our family has an “inside” joke. Anytime we’re supposed to be surprised at something we already know, we yell, “Sandals!” The genesis of this inside joke comes from a birthday party we held for our twins when they were just little tykes.
When the twins’ birthday was getting close, my wife took them shopping. She found some sandals, had them try them on, and when they fit, she bought them. I don’t remember how, but all of our kids knew that the twins were getting sandals as part of the birthday.
My wife admonished all of the kids to act surprised so that I would believe that it really was a surprise. It was one of the few times when all the planning went perfectly. The twins tore open the wrapped sandals and, in unison, yelled, “Sandals!”
The Mystery of Sandals
When Jesus prepared His apostles to go into Israel, two by two, to proclaim the kingdom of God and perform miracles, He gave them detailed instructions as to how they were to go and minister.
Don’t carry a traveler’s bag with a change of clothes and sandals or even a walking stick. Don’t hesitate to accept hospitality, because those who work deserve to be fed.
Matthew 10:10
This account is also found in Mark and Luke. Jesus was not telling His apostles to go on their journey barefooted. His apostles understood that Jesus was telling them to travel without a safety net. They could not take any extra things. They would go with the sandals already on their feet, but they could not take an extra pair. The apostles would be traveling without even the comforts common for poor travelers.
Go!
When we recall Jesus declaring to His apostles, and through them to us, the “Great Commission” in Matthew 28:16-20, we should remind ourselves: “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
The Queen of England never carries money, except on Sunday, when she places an ironed, folded, £5 or £10 note in the collection plate. It would be silly for her to carry money. She’s the Queen and has riches beyond belief. Now, consider, again, Philippians 4:19. I may not have a dollar in my wallet, but I have enough for every need I’ll ever have.
Live in Your Calling
Jesus wants us to be wise, but even more so, He wants us to walk by faith and trust that He will provide for our physical needs and for whatever we need to minister to others. We were saved for a purpose. Live in your calling, and God will provide.
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