In Luke 10:1-9, Jesus appoints and sends out seventy-two disciples to prepare the way for His ministry. He instructs them to go out with a message of peace and healing, and to rely on the hospitality of those they encounter. This passage highlights the importance of spreading the message of the Kingdom of God and provides valuable lessons for our own mission as followers of Christ. This devotional explores how we can embrace our call to share God’s Kingdom with others.
Scripture Reading:
“Now after these things, the Lord also appointed seventy-two others, and sent them two by two before his face into every city and place where he himself was about to come. Then he said to them, ‘The harvest is indeed plentiful, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore that the Lord of the harvest would send out laborers into his harvest. Go your way. Behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves. Carry no purse, no wallet, nor sandals. Greet no one on the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house.’ If a son of peace is there, your peace will rest on him, but if not, it will turn back to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking the things they give you, for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Don’t go from house to house. Into whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat the things that are set before you. Heal the sick who are there, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God has come near to you.’” — Luke 10:1-9 (WEBBE)
Reflection: In this passage, Jesus sends out the seventy-two disciples to prepare towns and cities for His arrival. He emphasizes the urgency and significance of their mission by comparing it to a plentiful harvest and urging them to pray for more workers. The instructions He gives them highlight the need for dependence on God and the importance of peace and hospitality in their ministry.
Jesus’ command to carry no purse, wallet, or sandals underscores their reliance on God and the hospitality of others. They are to focus on their mission and not be distracted by material concerns. Their greeting of peace and their message of the Kingdom of God are central to their task.
The passage teaches us about the nature of our own mission as followers of Christ. We are called to share the message of the Kingdom with others, relying on God’s provision and the kindness of those we encounter. The call to “heal the sick” and declare that “the Kingdom of God has come near” reminds us of the transformative power of Jesus’ message and the impact it can have on people’s lives.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to be laborers in Your harvest. Help us to embrace our mission with faith and reliance on Your provision. Teach us to share Your message of peace and healing with those around us and to trust in Your guidance as we step out in faith. May Your Kingdom come near through our words and actions, and may we be faithful in our calling to spread Your love and grace. In Your name, Amen.
Action Plan:
- Pray for Laborers: Regularly pray for more laborers to join in the mission of sharing the Kingdom of God. Ask God to raise up and equip individuals for this vital work.
- Embrace Hospitality: Look for opportunities to practice hospitality and to welcome others into your life, demonstrating the peace of Christ through your actions.
- Share the Message: Actively seek opportunities to share the message of the Kingdom of God with those around you. Be prepared to offer both words of encouragement and practical help.
Thoughts for Contemplation:
- How can I better rely on God’s provision and the hospitality of others in my own mission to share the Gospel?
- In what ways can I be more intentional about sharing the message of the Kingdom of God in my daily interactions?
- How can I demonstrate the peace of Christ in my relationships and outreach efforts?
As you reflect on these questions, seek to align your life with the mission Jesus has given us, embracing the call to share His message with confidence and grace.