except a stick!

I've just started to look at next weeks Bible readings, including Mark 6: 1-13. Jesus sends out the 12 disciples for the first time and instructs them "take nothing for the journey except a stick - no bread, no pack, no money in their belts. They might wear sandals, but not a second coat." [Revised English Bible]
The poodle might think these instructions are adequate - after all, life is best when chasing a stick - but me?!
On Saturday we took several items to the rubbish tip and far more to the charity shop (thank you Oxfam!). We are considering taking less, because Ikea is cheap and close, so we don't need to pack our crockery and can safely store it until our return. But I don't think that is quite what Jesus had in mind because he instructs the disciples to leave behind their money, making them completely dependent on hospitality.
What do we need in order to live? can we trust strangers to provide for us? should we? do we provide for our friends?
What do we need in order to share our faith? the stick is only there to help you walk further and do more, it seems that we already have all we need to witness to Jesus.

If only it was as simple as not taking the second coat! It's the shoes, jumpers, books, music, dog toys and more books that are also troubling me. Oh yes, and next week's sermon.