“Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, ² and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. ³ He said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money—not even an extra tunic. ⁴ Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. ⁵ Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” ⁶ They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.”  Luke 9:1-6

I wonder how long the journey was for the disciples who have been sent out by Jesus? From the perspective of the Gospel, it must have lasted for many weeks – but for us, the readers, it lasts just the wink of an eye. And, I wonder how successful they were in their ministry?  The text tells us that they told Jesus everything that they had done, but we have no idea what they did except for healing some diseases. Nevertheless, the crowds continue to follow Jesus and the disciples and the miracles and the healings continue. 

Then, in the very next scene, Jesus gives the disciples another opportunity to do marvelous things, but it seems their humanity gets in the way. When asked to feed the multitude of people, 5000 in all, they seem to have forgotten their power and authority that Jesus has commissioned them with.

We cannot forget the power of the Holy Spirit and the work that can be done when life gets us down or gets in the way.  Jesus is always there, in the background of our lives, giving us the Spirit to empower us with the ability to work our own wonders and miracles.

Pastor Dave