Mark 6:6-13, 30-34
In Mark chapter 6, Jesus spoke to the
twelve apostles. They were sent out in twos to spread the Word. They were given authority over
evil spirits. These were Jesus’ instructions: “Take nothing for the journey
except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not
an extra tunic. Whenever you
enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. And if any place will not
welcome you or listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a
testimony against them.”
That is not a challenge for the weak of
heart, or for one who trusts in himself alone. Only those who truly believe God
is in control could take on that challenge. No food, money, extra clothes
or anything. It is likely the twelve had reservations about the mission, but
none questioned him. Jesus’ instructions were clear. They went. Yes, it may
have helped that they were told they had authority to deal with evil spirits,
but there was no guarantee.
Though today the Lord does not gather a
specific group of us together and lay out exactly what to bring and not bring,
or instruct each of us exactly where to go, his commands are clear. In
addition, we have also been given the power of the Holy Spirit.
In him you also, when you
heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him,
were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 1:13
The Bible is overflowing with guidance and instruction on how to live. If we abide by these three alone, will the Lord commend us as his "Good and Faithful Servant?"
You
shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Mark
12:31
Truly, I say to you, as you
did it to one of the least of my brothers, you did it to me.
Matthew
25:40
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and
beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving
each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
Colossians
3:12-13
 |
| Book by: Bill Hybels |
No need to walk through the desert.
Look around the neighborhood. It is not essential to travel abroad, be patient
with your children. Don’t seek out strangers until you have forgiven your
relatives. Compassionate hearts, humility, kindness, etc. are qualities practiced
and honed throughout the journey of life. As our character evolves we influence all those whose lives we touch in some way.
Read/Listen to Mark 6:6-13
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