Traveling Free

Wonderful windup for the week to you,

Don't you love people who care enough to tell you the truth? The newly formed band of harvest hands certainly get that from Jesus in today's scriptures (Matthew 10:5-25). The great thing is that truth is dependable and sets us free. (John 8:32)  If nothing else the workers are going to be unhampered and free from carrying a lot of stuff on this trip ("Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts—no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff, for the worker is worth his keep.")

And the charge or pep talk that our Lord gives His brothers before they set out on their fledgling mission is not sugar coated or padded with false platitudes ("It will be easy and gobs of fun"}. In fact the last verse infers that they can expect to be maligned and mistreated just like He is. They can expect to be hated, betrayed, rejected, and persecuted. 

Wow! Would any of us sign up? The truth is that they have the opportunity to embark on some eternally important kingdom work. They are to have the thrill of making a difference in people's lives that will last.  And even if it is only to give a cup of cold water to a little one, they will receive a reward (verse 42). 

I like the motivation Jesus begins with in verse eight ("Freely you received, freely give"). Isn't that our drumbeat. What do we have that is not a gift? Let us go out on our mission  today traveling free because we know the truth and God's generous love. 

Love,

Ouida

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