vs 1-17 Sending out of 72 disciples to spread the word. This verse addresses the need for workers in the harvest. The harvest that is referred to in this passage is for souls. We have heard Jesus refer to this as "fishers of men" as well.
some tips for Jesus
1. do not take anything with you
2. live off of people of peace in order to spread the word
3. if you are not welcomed kick the dust off of your feet and leave.
The disciples return from their journey with joy.
vs 18-20 Jesus addresses those who return. This authority comes from me.
vs 21-22 Full of joy, Jesus prays
vs 23-24 Jesus says to disciples, You are lucky for seeing what you have seen.
Good Samaritan
vs 25-28 Expert of law asks Jesus "what must I do to have have eternal life?" I like Jesus response of this. He answers with a question. "How do you read it?"
The answer is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind. And to Love your neighbor as yourself." This is what you must do to have eternal life. This is why it is the greatest commandment.
vs 29-37 But the guy was still confused and asked, "who is my neighbor?" Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan. Now remember last week when we read the story about Jesus helping out the woman at the well. She was also a Samaritan. Jewish people and Samaritans did not get along. So it makes this story even more powerful.
A man was beat up and robbed and left him for dead. Three people passed him in the road.
1. A Priest saw him and crossed the road to avoid him in his path.
2. A Levite saw him and did the same thing as the priest. A levite was one who would assist a priest in the religious duties of the church. So both people were highly involved in the church but ignored the guy who was beat up on the side of the road.
3. A Samaritan walked buy and saw a man who was injured. Took pity on him and helped. He bandaged his wounds, took him to an inn to take care of him. What an amazing story of charity and helping a stranger.
A neighbor is not someone you live next door to. It is anybody and everybody. There is an old song. "They will know we are Christians by our love." Let us live it out.
vs 38-42 Jesus at the house of Mary and Martha
1. Mary sat at the feet of Jesus listening to Him.
2. Martha served around the house trying to take care of Jesus. But it says Martha was distracted. She had Jesus there at her side. She wanted Mary to help her. Jesus tried to calm her down by saying "Mary, has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away."
I think this is a great story to wrap up the reading right after the Good Samaritan. Many people get blind sided by the idea of serving and loving neighbor that at times we forget the first part of the command to Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength." Do not get distracted by what you do. But remember first and foremost who you are; A FOLLOWER OF CHRIST.
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