Monday 12 November 2018

Psalm: Psalm 33

Background

Jesus was definitely not a Scout! For those who haven't been a part of the Scout Association at one time or another, their motto is ‘Be Prepared’. For me, that means I still pack a snow shovel and sleeping bag in my car during the winter, just in case. The disciples couldn't pack for the ‘just in case’ – they are instructed to take nothing with them when they are sent out to share the good news.

In the second part of this passage, Jesus instructs the disciples to find houses where they are welcomed and to stay there whilst in that place. This restriction on luggage and encouragement to rely on strangers meant that the disciples would have to turn to others to look after them whilst they are out on mission.

Imagine walking into a strange village with no money to buy food to eat or a room for the night, seeking out a kind soul who might take you in and feed you. However, this was the start of the disciples’ mission; it would be these homes where the gospel would begin to take root and lives transformed by God’s power.

People are healed, unclean spirits banished and the kingdom of God brought near as the disciples journeyed through the land. It was nearing the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry but these disciples were beginning to learn how they could continue to share his story once he had gone.

To Ponder:

• Is there a time when you have forgotten to pack something important for a journey? What happened?
• How would you feel about being offered hospitality by a stranger?