The disciples undergo in-house training as Jesus "sends" them ('mission' means 'sending') to the lost, the marginalized people of his times. This preferential option for the poor is an indispensable part of the missionary character of the Church. Another characteristic is the mobile character of the mission itself - getting "settled" down in instituitional service is always a temptation. Missionaries are to share in the life of the people to whom they are sent with all the risks and inconveniences involved.

Unless the need and demands of a servant of God's people remain minimum, Good News cannot be shared with them as a gift. "Freely you have received, freely give."

There are several reasons why Jesus demands an austere and ascetical life from his missionaries. First, the mission is important and urgent ¡K "and as you go proclaim that the Kingdom of God is close at hand¡K"

The disciples should devote themselves to the mission with undivided attention. Their lack of material things and the lack of anxiety about them will help them to be single-minded in purpose. Secondly, the poverty of the missionaries will enhance their own credibility and that of the message they proclaim. Thirdly, radical poverty of the missionaries is also an eloquent proclamation of their trust in God's providence.