Carry Out the Mission

Note from today’s Bible reading: Matthew 10-11

Early on in His ministry, Jesus sent out His twelve disciples on a limited commission: “Do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter any city of the Samaritans; but rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:5-6).

However, the limits of this commission were not just about where they would go and who they would teach. Jesus gave them a specific message – “The kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 10:7) – and specific tasks to perform – “heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons” (Matthew 10:8). They were told not to take more than they needed (Matthew 10:9-10) and also to accept whatever help was offered to them (Matthew 10:11-12). If they were not helped they were not to complain, but move on (Matthew 10:13-15). In all things, they were to be “shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16).

As we think about the tasks that are before us – especially the work that we have to do for the Lord – these principles will help us. Once we know the task, we need to focus on doing what needs to be done and not allow ourselves to get distracted by unrelated work, material things, or personal slights. We need to work with others of like mind rather than thinking we need to do everything ourselves. We also need to exercise wisdom and not allow every potential hindrance to stop us.

So carry out the mission. Once we know our work, we need to do it. Let us not allow anything to distract us from fulfilling the Lord’s purpose for us.