EVERYTHING I NEED
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Luke 9:1-6 (NRSV)
Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. He said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money--not even an extra tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them." They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
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[Jesus] said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money - not even an extra tunic."
- Luke 9:3 (NRSV)
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MY husband makes sure we have cash before beginning a trip. He takes the car to be serviced and fills it with gas. Clothes, maps, and food are carefully loaded. I can't imagine going and taking nothing with us.
However, Jesus' 12 disciples were told to do just that - to take nothing. Why would Jesus ask them to go out into the world with no provisions? They were sent to preach God's word with only the clothes on their backs. I believe Jesus wanted them to learn a valuable lesson about trust. They were to rely on God for everything. Worrying about everyday necessities would consume energy they needed for their most important task - proclaiming the message of God's kingdom.
God still calls us today to take the salvation story to a lost and hurting world - to a discouraged co-worker, our neighbor, a friend. The only requirement is a willing heart. God provides everything else we need for the journey.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us surrender our worries about everyday needs to the One who knows all our needs. Guide us to those who haven't heard the wonderful, life-changing news of your love for us. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Each one of us is sent out by God to tell the salvation story.
-- Connie Coppings (Kentucky, U.S.A.)
PRAYER FOCUS: For willingness to witness about my faith