Monday 2nd June
Read Luke 9:10-11
“When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done. Then he took them with him and they withdrew by themselves to a town called Bethsaida, 11 but the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing.” (NIVUK)
The apostles returned from a mission where they were commanded to tell others of the kingdom of God and heal people. They debrief with Jesus and seek some time alone to recover. Jesus knows they have worked hard and need rest. The crowds though have other ideas. No peace was granted. Jesus welcomes them and continues on with His mission, the very same mission they had just returned from.
Therein lies the difference between Jesus and us. When we are tired and feel like we have worked hard and earned our rest it is likely that even the best of us resent the demands of others. Jesus ‘welcomed them’ is both a challenge and an embrace. We were all once welcomed by Him, at great cost. We were all healed by the Jesus. His generosity enriches us.
That generous welcome of Jesus is the model a humble disciple will follow. Paul grasped it well and exhorted the Corinthians to not resent, or begrudge, the constant call to generosity. Given what Jesus is about to do for this crowd, Paul’s words are a challenge to us also.
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” (2 Corinthians 9:10-11) (NIVUK)
