“Two by Two into the Unknown” by Beth DeCristofaro

“Two by Two into the Unknown” by Beth DeCristofaro

Memorial of St Paul Miki and Companions, martyrs

When the time of David’s death drew near, he gave these instructions to his son Solomon: “I am going the way of all flesh. Take courage and be a man.
Keep the mandate of the LORD, your God, following his ways and observing his statutes, commands, ordinances, and decrees … (that) the LORD may fulfill the promise he made on my behalf (2 Kings 1-4)

Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two (Mark 6:7)

Piety

O God, help me to follow your way on the path of life.  O Jesus, fill me with gratitude and courage as we go forth, two by two, for I know you will always be at my side.

Study

A meditation app that I use for prayer allows me to mix sounds.  One of my favorites combines the soft, rhythmic slosh of waves with the random popping of a fire.  Not only is it soothing, white noise, but it allows prayerful images to form easily.  The Sea of Galilea might have sounded much like my electronic waves and Jesus’ small charcoal fire, built to offer food and wisdom to his friends after the Resurrection, are just an imaginative visit away.

Water and fire, both archetypal images, are, of course, life-giving as well as destructive.  They are both often uncontrollable and fearsome.  At times our spiritual journey is as well, calling for us to trust the uncontrollable because it is just as much God’s domain as that which is predictable and orderly.  We are not adrift but indeed floating on the currents of life – materially as well as universally.  Giving over that control is God’s invitation to accepting God’s love.  Giving over control is what Jesus asked of his disciples when, with very little instruction, he sent them two by two into deep unknowable waters.

David’s final instructions to Samuel seem peaceful after a life full of highs, lows, sin, repentance, and above all, faith.  David’s confession to God and acceptance of his sin brought him back into righteousness with God, a place God had always held open for him as God does for us. David departed human life into the unknown filled with the truth that God will deliver on His promises.   

Action

St. Paul Miki and Companions departed into the unknown, facing the “fires” of martyrdom on a cross.  He forgave his executioners exhorting them to believe in Jesus and be happy as he was happy obeying Christ even unto his death.  What images bring you in touch with your unknowable yet supremely available friend, Jesus?  Spend some extra time with them and ultimately with your friend today.