A few days ago, I shared this passage as I was trying to encourage people to go evangelize those who are open and walk away from those who are hostile and closed. It was also Thursday's Gospel.
This is a hard thing to do, but we have the clear words of Christ Himself on this subject.
If someone does not receive you, or hear you, leave.
And the dusting of the dust of one's feet means that they are left with absolutely nothing, and that the disciples are not taking any guilt away. The hard thing for many people is the leaving behind of those they love, but who are closed.
Most of us have family members who have given up the faith or are absolutely closed. We may be called to walk away and, instead, go to those who are open and thirsty for the truth.
Be open to go wherever God calls you. You may be surprised.
Mark 6:7-13
Douay-Rheims
7 And he called the twelve; and began to send them two and two, and gave them power over unclean spirits.
8 And he commanded them that they should take nothing for the way, but a staff only: no scrip, no bread, nor money in their purse,
9 But to be shod with sandals, and that they should not put on two coats.
10 And he said to them: Wheresoever you shall enter into an house, there abide till you depart from that place.
11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you; going forth from thence, shake off the dust from your feet for a testimony to them.
12 And going forth they preached that men should do penance:
13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.
