Friday, December 6-Hope

Luke 9:1-6

My dad was a York County farmer. Even as a child he joined in the labor of the family farm. Being of Pennsylvania-German ancestry, he often declared: “many hands make light work!” As a boy I didn’t fully comprehend that expression. We might exclaim, “teamwork makes the dreamwork!” Both statements express the idea of a hope found in partnership and how partnership enables us to stand together.

Luke’s Bible passage relates some early ministry attempts of the followers of Jesus. “He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God” (vs.2). For good reasons they were sent out together. Ministry can be challenging and lonely. Pride sometimes prevents us from reaching out for help. Accomplishing tasks in partnership makes an enormous difference. God doesn’t call us to do everything on our own. We need other people - and other people need us. 

We can partner in service and partner in fellowship. “When the disciples returned, they reported to Jesus” (vs 10). Other occasions include the excitement of sharing what happened. Fellowship increases our joy while together celebrating God’s accomplishments in and through our lives.

Similar to the disciples, we’re also in partnership with Jesus. “He gave them power and authority” (vs 1). It’s not just our ability. Even when we’re alone we’re not on our own. The indwelling Holy Spirit invites us to collaborate in offering grace and peace to a world desperate for the hope of advent.

Prayerfully consider the simple, yet profound words of Mother Teresa. 

“What I can do, you cannot do.

  What you can do I cannot.

  But together we can do something beautiful for God.”

  How can you partner today to do something beautiful for God?                     

PASTOR BRAD SHAFFER