Daily Devotion, July 15, 2023

 

Devotion:

Read Luke 10:1-11 and 16.

Jesus had sent the twelve apostles out to teach, preach, and perform miracles in his name. Now, in a very similar way, he sends out 72 disciples to do the work that he has done before them. Scholars have discussed whom these 72 followers may have been, but their identities are not given. I like to think of the initial twelve as being what we think of today as clergy and the 72 as laity. That helps me to better apply it and learn what it means for us.

This passage helps us to understand that there are many who do not yet know Christ; and all of us, clergy and laypersons, are needed as workers. It lets us know there may be difficulties in our work, and we must go on faith. The line “do not greet anyone on the road” is an admonition that we are to stay focused on our mission and not be distracted. There is a subtle point in the first verse that is really easy to miss…Jesus will come behind the 72. In all our preaching, teaching, and serving, we must expect that Jesus will come after us, filling the hearts of those to whom we are reaching out. We do not go alone, but rather we serve in order to introduce and open the door for Christ.

Personal Worship Option:

How do you see yourself among the 72? Is there a primary area of ministry in which you serve? If not, please pray that God will lead you to a ministry area inside the church or out in the community. The harvest indeed is plentiful, and the workers are always a bit too few!