Sunday 03 July 2016

Psalm: Psalm 66

Background

Although the number of the workers Jesus sent is in doubt, itseems to be symbolic of the number of the nations of the world.This means that the gospel (the good news about Jesus) is to betaken to the whole world.

Jesus began by stating the fact that the work must not delay forthe harvest is ripe and plentiful but the laborers are few. Jesusurges the disciples to pray to the Lord of the harvest for morelaborers.

God is the Lord and owner of both - the harvest and the workers.The disciples become the answer for their own prayers. In verse 3,"Go on your way. See, I am sending you out ..." Jesus warns themthat the task is not trouble free. They are like lambs in the midstof wolves. There will be times when their lives are in danger andseem helpless. They must look to God to provide for theirneeds.

Jesus' instructions remind them that their task is urgent and notto delay by greeting people on the way. The East, like Pacificislanders, have elaborated greetings and hospitality which can betime consuming. Jesus also warns them about all these and with asense of urgency that they must press on.

Their task is to preach and to heal and their message is that "thekingdom of God has come" (v. 9).

To Ponder

• In which area do you see yourself as part of God's answer toyour own prayers?

• What contribution can you make to spread the gospel in yourlocal community?