Thursday November 2, 2023

Today is Thursday, November 2 and we are learning what the Bible says about proclaiming.

As a new day dawns, I slow my breathing, focus my mind and turn my heart to the presence of the Holy One. I inhale his joy, peace and kindness as I exhale my burdens, worries and concerns.

Pause and Pray

Blessed Lord God, I come quietly to this sacred space before I embark on a busy day. Meet me here in the stillness. Remind me of your steadfast love and help me hear the message you have for me. Amen.

I rejoice in God’s watchful kindness and love. I praise him with the words of Psalm 68.

Proclaim the power of God, whose majesty is over Israel, whose power is in the heavens. You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God! Psalm 68:34-35

Pause and Pray

The word “apostle” means “one who is sent.” After Jesus’ twelve disciples spent time learning and preparing for their task, Jesus sent them out. They were vested with power and authority to go and continue what they learned in their time with Jesus. Their journey was a ministry marked by healing and proclamation. They were to faithfully carry on the work they saw him do. They were to proclaim the good news of God’s kingdom. I am tasked with the same.

When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He told them: “Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere. Luke 9:1-6

I imagine being sent out on a journey by Jesus to proclaim the good news of God. I get out my suitcase. What shall I pack for this trip into the unknown? I am to leave my credit cards behind. I am to bring no change of clothes. No snacks, trail mix or water bottles. No weapons to protect myself. Jesus says I am to bring nothing for the journey. Nothing. I am to trust. Trust that God will provide for me through those I visit. I will stay in homes of faithful people and trust they will protect me, shelter me, feed me, clothe me and provide for my necessities.

Ask: What am I willing to forego in order to proclaim the good news of God’s kingdom to others? Where might Jesus send me to heal and free others?

Pause and Pray

Jesus, you are my Savior and Lord. Show me what it means to serve you and proclaim the truth of your love to others. Reveal whatever is holding me back from setting out for new places and people who have not heard your good news or found your healing grace. Help me trust you to guide my journey, meet my needs and provide for me along the way. I read the words from Luke again and listen for the message you have for me.

When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He told them: “Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere. Luke 9:1-6

Ask: What image, word or phrase stands out to me when I slowly read this passage? What is God trying to say to me through these words of scripture?

Pause and Pray

God wants to speak to me through the words of scripture. God is always speaking, I am the one who is learning to tune in and listen. I consider my current circumstances and recent relationships. How might God want to use this scripture to guide me? Perhaps there are places where I need to trust God more. Maybe I am to rely more on fellow believers to provide the opportunities and answers I need. Perhaps I have yet to claim the power and authority God has given me in my life. There are many ways I can proclaim the good news of God’s kingdom and announce his love, care, healing and blessing. What might those be and what might prevent me from doing so?

Pause and Pray

Lord Jesus, shine your light on my path forward. Reveal what I need to set down and leave behind in order to make this good journey with you. Help me determine when to welcome others and when to shake the dust off my feet. Show me what it means to proclaim the good news of your kingdom to a skeptical and broken world. Amen.

He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance! Acts 28:31

I leave this time of prayer empowered by the good news of Christ. I go to share his amazing love with others.

Amen