Tuesday | July 13, 2021
Matthew 11:20-24:
Jesus warns the Galilean cities. Their rejection of him, rejection of his Father will have consequences as has happened in the past. Are the mighty deeds he has done not enough for them to know him and to turn to him?
Rejection of you is so clear in this ongoing period of anger, repression and division. What will it take for us to realize there is nowhere to turn but to you?
Monday | July 12, 2021
Matthew 10:34—11:1:
Jesus’ sayings seem harsh but in fact need to be. The demands of discipleship are radical. Jesus tells his disciples that the conflict they face may very well include conflict with family. No relationship, even that of blood relatives outweighs the disciple’s relationship with Jesus and his mission.
My family and friends are gifts you have given me, but you are the source deserving of my love.
Sunday | July 11, 2021
Mark 6:7-13:
Jesus’ instructions are concise and clear, beginning with the understanding that they are not to go alone but “two by two.” Pack light he tells them and rely on those who welcome them for food and shelter. With Jesus’ authority, they preach and heal, carrying on his mission.
Your mission lives on as you summon, teach and send us forth. It is truly a gift to be your hands and your feet in this small corner of the world you created. Thank you.
Saturday | July 10, 2021
Matthew 10:24-33:
Jesus reassures his apostles. They do not need to be afraid. The kingdom of God will come and the unbelievers will be revealed. Those who oppose them may destroy their bodies but not their souls. They will be judged by their fidelity to the mission.
Sometimes, I am my own undoing. I let fear and anxiety get the best of me. All the while, you are saying over and over, “Do not be afraid.”
Friday | July 9, 2021
Matthew 10:16-23:
Jesus final instructions to his disciples concern the difficulties they will face for their commitment and fidelity. They will suffer rejection and persecution even death from both enemies and friends. They must remember that throughout God is with them and when necessary will speak for them. With him they will endure.
I need to reflect on those things that truly matter, Lord, and to turn away from that which has no meaning in the life you have given me.
Thursday | July 8, 2021
Matthew 10:7-15:
The Twelve have followed and learned from Jesus. Now they are to go out and make disciples. Their mission is the extension of Jesus’ mission. If they are rejected they are not to react with anger or violence. They are to move on, trusting in God.
We pray for all who are called and sent out, that they rely on the Holy Spirit for the courage to say and do what is right no matter the cost.
Wednesday | July 7, 2021
Matthew 10:1-7:
Jesus compassion and care for his people is evident by the numerous healings that have taken place. It is time for others to become active in the work. From his disciples Jesus chooses the Twelve who are to be “sent out” with authority over diseases and demons.
Your own people rejected you but you did not abandon them. I believe you love the Jewish people as much today as you did then and will them to turn to you.
Tuesday | July 6, 2021
Matthew 9:32-38:
Jesus heals a man who is mute. There are varied reactions to this healing. Some are amazed at this incredible act while others, the Pharisees especially, see that it could only be attributed to demons. Jesus and the disciples continue on their journey preaching and healing. There are laborers needed for there is much work to be done.
I look around and see so many people “troubled and abandoned.” Show me the way to shepherd them, leading them home to you.
Monday | July 5, 2021
Matthew 9:18-26:
Both the official and the woman are motivated by faith to ask the impossible of Jesus. The official’s daughter is brought back to life and the woman cured, proof of God’s gracious love and Jesus’ authority over death and suffering.
“In you O God, I place my trust.” I am not as good at giving things over to you as I would like to be, as I need to be. I ask your help to be able and willing to rest in you completely.
Sunday | July 4, 2021
Mark 6:1-6:
Jesus returns home to Nazareth and on the Sabbath he teaches in the synagogue. Those listening recognize him but cannot imagine he can perform miracles. Amazed at their lack of faith, Jesus and his disciples decide to move on.
Loving God, you chose to be with us, to be one of us. Your beginnings were so simple, your human life so ordinary and yet how extraordinary your love for us and the gift of salvation.
