A Challenging Word

Today we’re going to look at one of the challenging teachings of Jesus about what it means to serve. It’s not an easy word for us. And in a lot of ways, it’s not very practical.

We’re going to read it in the Bible text from Matthew, and then we’ll read a modern paraphrase. Both times through, pay attention to what goes on in your heart. What disturbs you - in a way that you sense might be the Holy Spirit convicting you to live into a more radical generosity. What disturbs you - in a way that induces guilt or confusion or unhealthy thoughts about proving something to God, etc. See if you can focus on the first kind of disruption and not as much on the second!

Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts—no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff, for the worker is worth his keep. Whatever town or village you enter, search there for some worthy person and stay at their house until you leave. – Matthew 10:9-11

Choose poverty, simplicity, and vulnerability. Carry no weapons. Stockpile no resources. Have no back-up. Abandon your ego. Do not parade in like a savior, basking in pomp and circumstance. Lead instead with quietness, gentleness, curiosity, and humility. Humbly accept the hospitality of those you wish to help and learn the art of depending on the very people you think you can save. - Debbie Thomas, Into the Mess