Week of November 20, 2022
Monday, Nov. 21 Luke 9:1-9
Jesus sends out His 12 disciples to do ministry. He equips them with power and gives specific directions to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal. What do you know to be true about the “Kingdom of God”? How do you help bring God’s Kingdom to others in your regular workday? How can you be a part of God’s healing presence to others?
Tuesday, Nov. 22 Luke 10:1-23
Jesus now sends out 72 disciples. He gives very specific instructions as to what to take – what not to take; what to do – what not to do. Jesus recognizes that they won’t always be well received. There are times to shake the dust from your feet and move on. Reflect on a time when you tried to share Jesus with someone and it wasn’t well received. How does this passage inform what you can do in this situation? What has been your experience in sharing the love of Jesus with others?
Wednesday, Nov. 23 Matthew 10:1-25
Matthew gives more information than Luke. He informs us that Jesus’ 12 disciples are an interesting mix of young men who typically don’t play well together (e.g. tax collectors and fishermen). He has been their rabbi and now sends them specifically to the Jewish people to proclaim that God’s Kingdom is at hand. Note the specific details He gives them – fully equipping them. He even calms their fears about how the Holy Spirit will tell them what to say. Spend some time in prayer asking the Holy Spirit’s guidance in living out your faith and sharing it with others.
Thursday, Nov. 24 John 17:13-23
On this Thanksgiving Day – we give thanks that Jesus prayed for you and me the night before He was crucified. Make a list of all that Jesus prayed for. Reflect on this list and pray for the strength and wisdom to share Jesus with whomever He puts in your path. Make a second list of 10 things you are grateful for and give thanks to Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Friday, Nov. 25 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
If you have been feeling a bit pressured to share your faith – today’s passage is for you! We are a new creation – Jesus Christ is at work in you and me bringing to life the work HE has done. The story we share with others is not about us – but about the change He has made IN us. How does focusing on what Jesus has done take the pressure off you? Who is one person this week that you can share your story with? Tell them one thing that God has done for you. (You could share with them one thing you were thankful for this Thanksgiving week – that’s a great start!) Know that God is sending you fully equipped to share the story of His redeeming love! Enjoy the journey!!!!
