The Large Crop

Somehow, in the last 2,000 years, the church lost its sense of urgency. Not many of us live like we have the pressing agenda outlined in today’s passage. Jesus’ words seem so strange. Maybe they belong in the past.

Yet, it’s a theme throughout the New Testament that time is short for spreading the gospel. It’s not just in this passage. Remember the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20): Go and make disciples of all the nations.

It’s still true, as Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few” (v 2). We know there is still much work to do … right here. Jesus gives some guidelines about how to share the good news of Christ: gently (like lambs—v 3) and peacefully (eat whatever they give you without complaining—v 8).

He’s saying people need the chance to see him through us so that they understand the clear choice before them: “Whoever listens to you listens to me; whoever rejects you rejects me; but whoever rejects me rejects him who sent me” (v 16).

But before you break out in a sweat, this passage brings comfort. We are to do nothing to advance the gospel on our own strength. That’s the point of the commands given to the 72 disciples (be vulnerable: don’t take money or anything else helpful). Don’t be self-reliant and independent. We will have everything we need “for the journey.”

Wow … now that requires faith. Maybe that’s the point, too. We need faith more than anything else if we are to live as “sent” people, and if others are to see Christ in us.

Respond in Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, gracious and loving God, thank you for all you’ve done in our lives. We pray you will give us the faith and courage we need to tell others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Jo Lynn Duck

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).