In today's Gospel, Jesus sends the Twelve out two by two to continue the work he had begun. He instructs them to travel light and to rely on the hospitality of others, but to not stay where they are not welcome. The Twelve go forth to drive out demons, to anoint many who are sick, and to cure them.
Jesus instructs the Twelve to travel light. If you were asked to name those things you truly need in order to live, what would you name and why? Now consider all of the things you have—home, car, property, furniture, clothing, and such. Which of those things are truly essential? Take time to pray about Jesus' call to travel light. What do you need to get rid of? What do you need in order to truly live?
Invite your family to enter into the discussion of what it means to travel light. Create a two-column poster or chart with the headings Have to Have and Could Do Without. Begin by inviting family members to name the things they feel they have to have in order to live. Write their suggestions in the Have to Have column. Then invite family members to name things they have that they feel they could do without. Write their suggestions in the Could Do Without column.
Compare the lists. How are they alike? How are they different? What is the message of today's Gospel and of this activity for your family?
In place of discussion starter questions, give each family member a large paper bag or a mid-size garbage bag. Give family members thirty minutes to go to their rooms and to put into the bags any clothing, games, toys, books, and things that they are no longer using and could do without. At the end of the thirty minutes, invite the family to again gather together and to show each other what they have put into their bags. Make plans to deliver the bags to a local charity or collection center.