Day 30 : Luke 10:1-20

Read Luke 10:1-20

Helpful Background Information: 

• In Luke 10, Jesus sends seventy (or seventy-two) disciples ahead of Him in pairs to prepare the way for His ministry. He tells them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few” (v. 2), meaning that many people need to hear the gospel, but there are not enough messengers. 

• When the disciples return, they are overjoyed that they were able to cast out demons in Jesus’ name. They are excited about the power they were given. But Jesus redirects their joy, saying, “Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven” (v. 20). In Mark 3:7-19 the crowds followed Jesus because of His miracles, but they weren’t really interested in knowing Him personally. Even the disciples, whom Jesus called to be with Him, sometimes got more caught up in what Jesus could do for them than in who He was.

Reflection Questions: 

• Jesus said the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few (Luke 10:2). What keeps people from becoming “workers” for God’s kingdom? Are any of those things holding me back?

• What are some successes I celebrate more than my salvation? How can I refocus my joy on what matters most?

• What would change in my life if my greatest joy came from knowing I belong to Jesus, instead of from my accomplishments or recognition?

• Have I ever avoided talking about Jesus because I was afraid of how someone might react? How can I grow in courage to share my faith?