Matthew 9:35-10:15

Day after day, John sees the crowds growing. People almost trample one another just to get close to Jesus. One evening, Jesus tells John how deeply He feels for them. Then He says something puzzling: the harvest will be very large. Jesus turns to the men and explains that gathering a harvest takes many people. One person cannot do it alone. Workers are needed who are willing to do the hard work in the wind, rain and sun. Harvesting is not easy work, but the satisfaction it brings is beyond measure! At first, they do not quite understand what He means. Then He explains that He is actually talking about a spiritual harvest. The satisfaction is even greater there, and you soon forget all your hard work as you enjoy the joy of a successful harvest.

For some time now, Jesus’ twelve chosen disciples have watched what He does and listened to what He says every day. But unless you put what you have learnt into practice, it means nothing. The time has now come for them to go out and do just that. Jesus certainly does not send them into the field empty-handed - He has thoroughly equipped them. This practical experience is still part of their training, however. Only later, after Jesus’ ascension, will they set things in motion to spread the Gospel throughout the world.

At last, the big day arrives for the men to put what they have learnt into practice. Jesus gives them full authority over unclean spirits and the power to heal the sick. In other words, they can continue Jesus’ ministry directly as His authorised representatives!

John and his companions receive very specific instructions. They are sent only to the people of Israel and must avoid the Samaritans and other Gentile nations. Their message to everyone must be: “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” But their message must go hand in hand with practical service, such as healing the sick, even cleansing people with leprosy, and driving out evil spirits.

John and his friends are very excited about putting into practice what they have learnt from Jesus over the past while. What an exciting opportunity!

But a surprise awaits them. If they think it will be easy, they are making a very big mistake. To begin with, Jesus forbids them to take anything along. They may take no money, extra clothes, shoes or even a travelling bag. What is more, they may accept no payment from anyone for what they do. Does that sound a little unfair? How are they supposed to survive?

No, it is not unfair - Jesus wants to teach them something very important: complete dependence on God! After all, He preached to them on the mountain: “Blessed are those who know how dependent they are on God.” Perhaps they will remember this when they find themselves somewhere out in the countryside without food or a place to stay. Or perhaps even with a pair of shoes that have fallen apart along the way. The hardest part is that, when this happens, they will not be able to go begging for help, cap in hand. They must rely on the hospitality of the people who hear their message. God will bring the message to someone who, in turn, will obey His voice and willingly provide the men with accommodation, food and even shoes, without being asked - everything they need!

Jesus wants to make it very clear to John and the others how serious the message is that they must take to people. God’s rich blessing awaits those who receive it, especially those who offer them hospitality. The promise of eternal life and God’s peace is more than anyone could ever ask for. Those who reject them, however, also reject the message. And they face eternal condemnation! As a sign of this, the men must symbolically shake the dust off their feet.

You and I are also part of Jesus’ team of “farm workers”. Some of us are still being trained, and we must be content to pull out weeds or water the plants. Others operate those big machines that bring in tons and tons of souls. Some of us are entrusted with only a small patch of land, which we must lovingly tend until it is ready for harvest. Some have just one little mealie plant to look after! Then there are those who have been given an enormous field to manage, where the harvest is huge, but the responsibility is even greater.

Find out where you belong in Jesus’ team, and put your shoulder to the wheel. If that means you need some form of training, then make sure you get it! Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” Could it be because your place is still empty?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for giving me eternal life and Your wonderful peace. This morning I pray for the many people who hear the message every day but still reject it!