Trusting God. The power of discipleship.
John Povey
July 02, 2022
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Luke 9: 1-9 (NRSVA)
1 Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3 He said to them, ‘Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money—not even an extra tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. 5 Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.’ 6 They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
7 Now Herod the ruler heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8 by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. 9 Herod said, ‘John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?’ And he tried to see him.
Alfred, Lord Tennyson wrote these inspirational words: “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”
Prayer is about trust. Prayer is about dependence on God. In the field of evangelism, it is not by techniques or clever strategies or a wealth of human resources that people come into the kingdom of Jesus Christ. The kingdom grows through humble witnesses who depend every moment of every day on the gifts of the Holy Spirit for their provision. We do not build Christ’s Kingdom. He Himself builds his kingdom through us.
When Jesus called the disciples to be his missionaries, he gave them all that they needed to minister on his behalf in the towns and villages. There was no need to bring anything else along to complete that mission. They were to accept hospitality as God’s provision, developing relationships and being content with what they were given.
Jesus’ mission is still about word and deed. Our words must be spoken with acts of compassion for a world that needs to hear the good news. It means little to teach the love of God for all, if we do not also show God’s love by helping to meet human needs.
The Lord calls us to His mission, in sharing his message with words and actions. And he equips us with everything we need to carry it out. Offer yourself anew to Jesus today. Ask for no provision except what Jesus gives — His Spirit to be your guide, and friend. We can always trust Him. He provides all that we need to fulfil our calling.
PRAYER:
Loving Lord God, you call us to join in your work. Help us to listen to your voice. Make us passionate about the mission you have given us. Strengthen us to be faithful with the good news, sharing your love with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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