Strength in Numbers
Strength In Numbers
Suppose you are going on a trip. Do you tend to over pack or under pack? How many phone chargers have you had to replace as a result of traveling?!
On a happier note, think for a moment about a favorite trip you’ve taken. Where did you go? Who accompanied you on the trip? What makes it a favorite?
We read in the Gospel of Luke about Jesus sending a group of 72 of His disciples on a trip. He paired them up by two’s and sent them in different directions to various towns and places that Jesus would later visit. He prayed for them, noting that there was much work to be done but a shortage of workers (sound familiar?). He also noted that their assignment would not be without risk. He said He was “sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.” He gave them instructions to take no provisions (no suitcases) but to rely on the hospitality of others. He instructed them to remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever was set before them. Jesus told them to heal the sick and say to them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.”
Suppose you are going on a trip. Do you tend to over pack or under pack? How many phone chargers have you had to replace as a result of traveling?!
On a happier note, think for a moment about a favorite trip you’ve taken. Where did you go? Who accompanied you on the trip? What makes it a favorite?
We read in the Gospel of Luke about Jesus sending a group of 72 of His disciples on a trip. He paired them up by two’s and sent them in different directions to various towns and places that Jesus would later visit. He prayed for them, noting that there was much work to be done but a shortage of workers (sound familiar?). He also noted that their assignment would not be without risk. He said He was “sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.” He gave them instructions to take no provisions (no suitcases) but to rely on the hospitality of others. He instructed them to remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever was set before them. Jesus told them to heal the sick and say to them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.”
The disciples headed out in pairs and upon their return, they were pumped up! God had been doing wonderful things through them! Jesus helped redirect their enthusiasm, instructing them not to celebrate the power that came through them but rather to celebrate that God had called them to be His children and workers for His mission.
This is an exciting story from the early church and we, too, can celebrate the great things God does through His willing followers. But there is one aspect of this account that sometimes we overlook. God sent His messengers out in pairs. They did not go it alone.
This is an exciting story from the early church and we, too, can celebrate the great things God does through His willing followers. But there is one aspect of this account that sometimes we overlook. God sent His messengers out in pairs. They did not go it alone.
Here are some questions to consider as you think about this account:
- Why does He send the disciples out two by two?
- Why does He send them ahead of Him?
- What was the purpose of traveling light?
- What in their report gives Jesus reason for joy?
Bible verses to inspire you:
4832 Ponderings: As you reach out to others, think of the word compassion. What is it? How do we live it? How does it point people to Christ? What can you do today to show it?
- “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid (Psalm 27:1)?”
- “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10: 45)”
- "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality (Romans 12:9-13)"
- “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).”
- “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).”
4832 Ponderings: As you reach out to others, think of the word compassion. What is it? How do we live it? How does it point people to Christ? What can you do today to show it?
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