As Laborers Go into the Harvest

Acknowledging God

All Glory and Honor 

Matthew 10:5-15 The Message

5-8 Jesus sent his twelve harvest hands out with this charge:
“Don’t begin by traveling to some far-off place to convert unbelievers. And don’t try to be dramatic by tackling some public enemy. Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Tell them that the kingdom is here. Bring health to the sick. Raise the dead. Touch the untouchables. Kick out the demons. You have been treated generously, so live generously.
9-10 “Don’t think you have to put on a fund-raising campaign before you start. You don’t need a lot of equipment. You are the equipment, and all you need to keep that going is three meals a day. Travel light.
11 “When you enter a town or village, don’t insist on staying in a luxury inn. Get a modest place with some modest people, and be content there until you leave.
12-15 “When you knock on a door, be courteous in your greeting. If they welcome you, be gentle in your conversation. If they don’t welcome you, quietly withdraw. Don’t make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way. You can be sure that on Judgment Day they’ll be mighty sorry—but it’s no concern of yours now.

For Reflection

How should a missionary act?  Witness in word and deed.  Help those who are spiritually lost, who are suffering hunger, illness, or injustice.  Be a friend to those rejected by society.

Be humble. Avoid arguments of philosophy. They will dissolve in priceless hope. Those who choose to follow Christ do so, not out of fear,  but out of love, trust, and hope.

Pray

Pray that your life is a witness to the living God.  Pray that others will be attracted to God because they see God's love radiating in you.

Forward to a friend