Our scripture this week is Matthew 10:24-31.
“The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for students to be like their teachers, and servants like their masters. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household! So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
In our lesson this week Jesus has shared with His disciples encouragement for their upcoming mission journeys. He tells them the message they carry may be rejected initially, but because it is God’s eternal truth, it will be heard. Jesus ends this teaching with the assurance that God is aware of their effort and that they are valuable to Him.
Do you sometimes wonder if it’s all worth it? I’m sure we all have days when we feel it doesn’t matter what we do. Jesus says not to be afraid, it is expected that the powers of this world will oppose us and try to make us feel worthless. However, Jesus reminds us how much we mean to God.
The Father in heaven loves and cares for us, and nothing on earth can take away that connection. We are His children, standing with Christ to share the Good News and giving the world a chance to know His love as well. We can take comfort and courage from this relationship, knowing He is our strength and our redeeemer.
Wise and wonderful God, we are grateful for Your love poured out for us. Help us to be strong against the pull of worldly things, living in Your name and for Your glory. Amen.