When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is offered to you. Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’
Luke 10:8-9
Jesus sent His followers out to minister to people in places that had not yet heard His story. They were to accept whatever hospitality they were offered, without concern for their own customs or wants. They were to live with them, healing the sick and teaching about God’s love.
Their ministry really wasn’t “for” Jesus, and certainly not for themselves – it was about loving God first and their neighbors as themselves. They had found something very special in their connection to the Lord, and they were eager to share that joy with all who would receive the Good News. Their mission wasn’t just about helping people, but helping people to know God.
I remember a mission trip with a group of youth to work in an urban setting, and no matter what job we were assigned for the day, we prayed together with those we worked for to begin and end our task. It was about doing something for them to be sure, but the larger goal was to share God’s love. It is important that the people we help know we love them, but more important that they know God loves them.
Loving Lord, we ask Your blessing as we go into the world today. Make us strong in faith to show Your love to those injured by sin. May we share Your healing presence with everyone we meet. Amen.