In today’s Gospel, Jesus sends out seventy-two disciples in pairs to preach the word of God, heal the sick, and prepare for His mission. His instruction, “Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals,” may seem contradictory to human logic. However, by giving this command, Jesus encourages them to cultivate inner peace, ensuring their presence and message resonate effectively.

Often, true love, friendship, and solidarity must be tested. When a relationship prompts one person to ask, “Do you still love me?” it indicates a need for clarification and affirmation, suggesting cracks have formed in fidelity or loyalty. The same was true in the relationship between Jesus and the apostle Peter, which also needed reaffirmation.