Our scripture this morning is Luke 9:1-6.
And He called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all the demons and to heal diseases. And He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to perform healing. And He said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, neither a staff, nor a bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not even have two tunics apiece. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that city. And as for those who do not receive you, as you go out from that city, shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” Departing, they began going throughout the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Jesus sent out His disciples to do the things He was doing – healing and sharing the Good News. We hear the same call from Jesus today, to spread God’s love and the Gospel everywhere. He reminds us all of our responsibility once more as He ascends to Heaven, telling us “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
Notice His instructions about what to take with us (virtually nothing) and what to do – rely on God’s power and grace to sustain us. All who claim Him as Lord bear the responsibility to proclaim God’s kingdom. Whether we realize or not, we have been given the gifts we need to accomplish this charge.
It may be difficult for us to accept that we are the ones called to speak into the lives of others about God’s blessings for all. Christ commissioned each of us to be stewards of God’s word and His love for all. May we be energetic in our task, forgiven and made whole, to share the Good News with the world.
Gracious God, You have blessed us and called us as part of Your plan of salvation. Help us to reach others with the joy of Your love. Amen.