Saint Pio of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio), Priest

In today's Gospel, Jesus sends the Twelve on mission with surprising instructions: take no walking stick, sack, food, money, or extra clothing. Imagine hearing that today. 😅 We hardly leave home without checking our phone, charger, power bank, wallet, water bottle, and all our other “essentials.” Some of us even have what we call EDC, an Everyday Carry, with everything we think we might need just in case.

Jesus is not necessarily telling us to throw away our belongings. He is challenging us to ask: What do I really depend on? Sometimes our EDC becomes bigger because we want to be prepared for everything. Yet life will always bring situations for which no gadget, money, or carefully packed bag can fully prepare us. There are moments when all we can carry is faith and the confidence that God will provide what we truly need.

Today we also celebrate Saint Padre Pio, a man who lived simply but carried something far more powerful: a deep relationship with Jesus. His life was marked by prayer, the Eucharist, confession, sacrifice, and trust in God despite suffering. His familiar encouragement, “Pray, hope, and don’t worry,” beautifully complements today’s Gospel. We prepare responsibly, but we do not allow worry to control us.

Perhaps our most important everyday carry cannot fit inside our pockets or bags: faith, prayer, hope, compassion, and trust in God. Bring your phone, charger, wallet, and power bank. 😄 But as we step out each morning, may we never forget the one essential we need most: a heart that trusts that wherever God sends us, He goes with us.