Jesus further instructed his disciples: “Do not carry a purse, nor a food pouch, nor sandals, and do not embrace anybody in greeting along the road.” (Luke 10:4) It was customary for a traveler to carry not only a pouch and food but also an extra pair of sandals, for soles could wear out and laces could break. But Jesus’ disciples were not to worry about such things. Rather, they were to trust that Jehovah would care for them by means of fellow Israelites, among whom hospitality was a custom.

But why did Jesus tell his disciples not to embrace anyone in a greeting? Were they to be cold, even rude? Not at all! The Greek word a·spaʹzo·mai, meaning to embrace in a greeting, may mean more than a polite “hello” or “good-day.” It may also include the customary kisses, embraces, and long conversation that would ensue when two acquaintances met. One commentator observes: “Salutations among the Orientals did not consist, as among us, of a slight bow, or extension of the hand, but was performed by many embraces, and inclinations, and even prostrations of the body on the ground. All this required much time.” (Compare 2 Kings 4:29.) Jesus thus helped his followers to avoid unnecessary, though customary, distractions.

The commission to preach the good news of God’s Kingdom and to make disciples is now being carried out by well over 5,000,000 Witnesses of Jehovah worldwide. (Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20) They realize that their message is urgent. Therefore, they make the most of their time, avoiding distractions that would prevent them from giving full attention to their important assignment.

Jehovah’s Witnesses strive to be cordial with all they meet. Nevertheless, they do not simply engage in idle chatter, nor do they get caught up in debates over social issues or the failing attempts of this world to correct injustices. (John 17:16) Rather, they focus their discussion on the only long-term solution to man’s problems—God’s Kingdom.