Our scripture this week is Matthew 9:35-10:8.
These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.”
Matthew 10:5-8
Jesus tells the disciples to go to those closest to them, “the lost sheep of Israel” (10:6). He wants them to see there are plenty of people right where they are that need to hear the Good News. By their witness those around them can find a new relationship with God.
Those closest to them can be both the easiest and the hardest to reach. On one hand they know about each other, their customs and culture are the same. However, this familiarity can also lead to rejecting the message because they are “nobody special”.
We have the same to call, to ensure those around us know the love and saving power of Christ, and we face these same challenges. Reach out with honesty, telling what Jesus has done for you and the world. Offer others the chance to know the risen Christ as you do. By sharing your faith you obey His commandment to love others as yourself.
Loving Lord, we hear Your call to bring the truth of Your love to all the world. Help us to be energetic workers, open and unafraid. Amen.