Sunday 03 July 2022
- Bible Book:
- Luke
'Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me, and whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.' (v. 16)
Background
Today's reading comes from the Luke's Gospel and later readings this week are from the Book of Acts. The two books have the same author and the theme running throughout our readings this week is 'Apostolic Witness'. The word ‘apostle’ means ‘one sent out'. Jesus had 12 apostles who followed him and who, after his ascension into heaven, were his ambassadors on earth. This week the readings focus on stories of witness, when the first apostles went out into the world to evangelise and tell people about Jesus.
Today's passage falls between several well-known Bible stories. Before this, Jesus performed miracles including calming a storm, healing a sick woman and feeding a crowd of 5000 people; and following this passage is Jesus' account of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) which he gave to illustrate what it means to be a good neighbour.
In today’s reading, Jesus is sending 70 disciples in pairs ahead to prepare people for his coming. He gives clear instructions on what the disciples should do. He tells them to travel light (v. 4), greet people (v. 5), stay focused on where they are welcomed and not to spread themselves too thin (v. 7). In places where they are not welcomed, they should leave without worrying about wasting their time.
The 70 are taking the message that Jesus is coming for all people, not just the Jews. He has particular concern for women, the poor and the outcasts of the world. Jesus as God’s Spirit-led son came to offer eternal life to all people who follow him.
To Ponder:
- How do you think the 70 felt when they were told to go out and about without money and rely on the kindness of strangers?
- What opportunities do you think there are for you to talk to others about Jesus?
- How have you shared something of your faith with others this week?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, guide our conversations as we talk about Jesus. Help us to be present, to listen to others as part of our evangelism. May we always strive to be kind and practise gentleness, patience and love as part of our discipleship, worship and mission. We also remember in our prayers our Methodist community across the world. We ask for your blessing, strength and guidance for the people and the places and situations they find themselves in. We ask this in your Holy Trinity name. Amen.