St. Francis of Assisi
Luke 10:1-12
When Jesus “set his face toward Jerusalem,” he began a new practice. He began to send advance teams, pairs of disciples, into the villages he planned to visit. Rather than a simple pilgrimage, Jesus’ ministry was taking on the eschatological significance of a royal mission. Wherever Jesus went and wherever his messengers were sent, there was healing and celebration. Whenever the kingdom comes near, there is liberation and joy.