Matthew 10:40-41

“Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.” vs. 40

In Matthew’s account Jesus’ instructions to the disciples that he sent out in mission are lengthy and precise. He emphasizes the cost of discipleship and lets them know that there will be difficult sacrifices, but he ends his little sermon with some words of reassurance and hope. As insignificant as they may feel, they have an important role, and whoever welcomes them will be welcoming him. They will be standing in his stead!

That should be a word of assurance to anyone who recognizes that they have been called as disciples and given a role in bringing in the peaceable kingdom. When we reach out to others with a prayer and a word of healing hope we are for them the presence of Jesus. Think of it, in our loving our face is the face of Jesus. Our smile is his smile, and our hug is his hug. It is through us that the hurting people of our neighborhoods and communities encounter the Divine Presence. And that is a pretty significant role.

So if we’re ever feeling that we don’t count for much in our congregation or in the church, we can just forget about such nonsense. We are God to those we serve! And if that doesn’t give us some idea of our significance, it’s hard to know what would! We are sent in the name of Jesus and those who welcome us, welcome him.

Thought for the Day: What happens when I take my role as Jesus seriously?