Saturday, February 9, 2019

“Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”

Luke 9

“Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” v3-5

Two key takeaways for me with the account of Jesus sending our the twelve (see also Matthew 10, Mark 3): 
  1. When Jesus sends out the twelve He wants them to depend solely on Him - otherwise, the Twelve risk seeking fortune and gain for themselves, dependence on self, or dependence on wealthy benefactors.  God wants us to be 100% clear from where our livelihood comes.
  2. We are to deliver the message - boldly - and not focus on any outcomes as this will be Jesus' role. 
Our primary job is to love Him and as a result of this to love others - see also Matthew 22:34-40.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has provided me with everything - life, family, health, etc. - You have also helped me through dark times and never left or forsaken me - thank You Jesus!  I am undeserving of such a God.  I daily miss the mark.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.