Matthew 10:7-13
“And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those with leprosy, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give. Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is deserving of his support. And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. As you enter the house, give it your greeting. If the house is worthy, see that your blessing of peace comes upon it. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace.”
This is an interesting assignment. It’s a mini assignment of what they will do in Acts. Their message is one of the kingdom. What they do know is Jesus the God’s person. They don’t know the message of salvation yet. Just Jesus. That’s a good message. I don’t think they knew it yet, but He is God come to earth. He is much of our message today.
They are to trust God for guidance and provision. They aren’t to go expecting to get paid. Just like Jesus didn’t have a home, they won’t either. But as they heal and preach they will come across grateful people who will invite them to stay and feed them. They are trusting that will happen.
I would be anxious. Partially because I’m introverted, but also because I would like to know if there was a place to stay ahead of time. Matthew 6:26 says, “Look at the birds of the sky, that they do not sow, nor reap, nor gather crops into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more important than they?” God provided for them and will for us.
While we are to live life in a trusting way, this assignment isn’t like normal life. Usually we are to work, plan and save. Jesus is telling them to do this. So, it will work out.
Not all will receive us. He says in ending, “But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace.” As we go throughout our days some respond to us, others don’t. Don’t worry about those who aren’t interested in us. Don’t be hurt. Their response means we aren’t to invest time and energy into them. They are doing us a favor. We don’t have enough time or energy for everyone.
We are to obey the Lord and follow His leadings. He puts opportunities in our paths. take them. He will provide.
Thank You, Lord for Your guidance and provision. Help us to follow You, help us to respond to the needs presented to us.