JUNE 20, Mark 6:9

Footwear simply means what you wear on your feet. Today, there are countless types of footwear – high-heels, boots, clogs, beach sandals, sports shoes, etc. You name it; they have it in the shops. Some are made for comfort; others are for fashion. Some are expensive; some are reasonably-priced. Compare these shoes with the footwear worn by people of Biblical times. The people were sometimes barefooted as even the simplest sandals were costly. It was common for the poor to walk around or even travel long distances barefooted. When we read of “shoes” in the Bible, it actually refers to the sandals that were worn.

A sandal consisted of a sole made from a piece of cowhide cut to the shape of the foot. It was secured by a long thong (which looked like a leather strap) which came up through the sole between the big and second toes (like ‘Japanese slippers’) and was tied round the ankle several times. Slippers were also worn.

When Jesus sent His twelve disciples out to preach the gospel, He gave instructions to them before sending them off. They were to take nothing except for a staff or stick and nothing else. No bag, no bread, no money and no extra coat. Jesus wanted them to concentrate on one thing and that was to preach the gospel. Then Jesus instructed,“But be shod with sandals.” Why do you think the Lord Jesus did not ask them to bring bread and money? Jesus was teaching His disciples to depend on God for their daily needs. Jesus understands our every need, and will make sure we are well taken care of.

Look at the sandals worn and label the two parts identified.

Thought: When God gives us a task, He will equip us to carry it out.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach me to depend on You for my daily needs and be prepared to share the Gospel everywhere I go. In Jesus’name I pray, Amen.