BUILDING BRIDGES IN A COMPLEXE WORLD: A MEDITATION ON LUKE 10: 1-12.

 

Introduction

In Luke 10:1-12, we find Jesus preparing a large group of his disciples for a crucial mission. These are not the twelve apostles we often hear of, but a larger group of 72 followers. Through this passage, Jesus provides profound insights into the nature of discipleship, evangelism, and the establishment of God's kingdom on Earth. As Christians, this passage invites us to recognize our significant role in the grand narrative of God's redemptive plan and to discern how we might participate actively in it.

 

1. Trust and Co-Missioning:

One of the most striking features of this passage is Jesus’ immense trust in his disciples. The number, 72, is significant in the biblical context. In Genesis, there were 70 nations that emerged after the Flood. They represented the whole humanity. In Numbers 11:24-25, Moses selected 70 elders upon whom God bestowed his Spirit and they prophesied. Meanwhile, there were two other men chosen to go up to the tent with the 70 elders. One was called Eldad and the other Medad. Although they did not go out to the tent with others, the Spirit of God still came and rested on them and they prophesied in the camp (Numbers 11:26). So, this brings us to the number 72.  By selecting 72, Jesus symbolically demonstrates how his mission is connected with that of Moses in the Old Testament, but also that his mission is to reach out to every nation, indicating that the message of the Kingdom of God is universal.

By commissioning these 72, Jesus demonstrates trust in their ability to advance His mission. It underscores that the task of building the Kingdom of God isn’t for an exclusive group but is the shared responsibility of every believer. He sent them 2 by 2, thus underlining the importance of community because where two or more are gathered in His name, He is in their midst (Mt 18:20). Jesus sees the potential in each of his followers and believes that they, empowered by the Holy Spirit, can accomplish great things. The question then for us is : “how ready and willing are we to be associated to Christ’s mission today?”.

 

2. Jesus’ Instructions: A Guide for Today’s Disciple:

Jesus didn't send the 72 out unprepared. His specific instructions carry deep meaning:

Travel Light (v. 4): Jesus asks them not to carry a purse, bag, or sandals. In our cluttered world, this is an invitation to simplicity and trust in God’s provision. We are to be free from excessive attachments, focusing solely on the mission. This is particularly applicable to those called specifically to the work of evangelization in the Church.

Enter Homes with Peace (v. 5-6): Usually, whenever the Israelites meet themselves, they salute each other by saying : “SHALOM”, which means “PEACE”.  Our approach to others, especially those we seek to evangelize or help, should always begin with peace. In a complex world with diverse beliefs and ideas, initiating conversations with a peaceful demeanor and a beautiful smile can build bridges.

Stay and Eat What’s Provided (v. 7-8): This signifies contentment and respect for the cultures and people we interact with. We should not impose our expectations but appreciate and find God even in unfamiliar territories. Christians should always remembers that they are instruments that God wants to use to communicate his loving and liberating presence in the world. Therefore, we should not impose our faith on others.

Heal the Sick and Proclaim the Kingdom (v. 9): Our mission should bring both physical healing (meeting tangible needs) and spiritual nourishment (sharing the Good News). In today’s context, it calls us to holistic ministry that addresses both body and soul.

Acceptance and Rejection (v. 10-12):

Jesus acknowledges that not everyone will receive his disciples or their message. In our endeavors, we too will face acceptance and rejection. However, our responsibility is to remain faithful, ensuring we’ve done our part in love and sincerity.

The commissioning of the 72 is a powerful testament to the role each Christian has in God’s redemptive plan. Jesus, by entrusting such an important mission to them and to us today, emphasizes the collective responsibility and privilege we hold.

In today’s complex world, our approach should be one of simplicity, peace, respect, holistic ministry, and perseverance. We are reminded that the task ahead isn't based on our strength but on the trust Jesus has in us, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Praying for Missionaries today is also a mean of participating actively in this mission. The disciples are going to share in the mission their life experiences with Jesus. So, this is what being a missionary, a Christian is about: sharing our own encounter with Jesus.

May we, like the 72, rise to our calling with faith and fervor, fully aware of our role in the Kingdom of God.

 

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

In the footsteps of the 72 disciples, we come before You, humbled and grateful for the trust You have placed in us. As we navigate the complexities of our world, help us to embrace simplicity, to carry Your peace to every heart, and to respect and love all whom we encounter.

Grant us the grace to serve holistically, addressing both the tangible and spiritual needs of those around us. May we always remember that it is not by our might or power, but by Your Spirit, that we can share the light of Your Kingdom.

In times of rejection or hardship, let us find solace in Your unchanging love and continue our mission with unwavering faithfulness.

Empower us, O Lord, to rise to our calling, fully aware of our role in Your magnificent plan. With trust in our hearts and Your word on our lips, may we contribute to the building of Your Kingdom here on Earth. 

MAY GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY!