The Power and the Joy of Being Sent

Luke 10:1–20

Exposition
Jesus sends out seventy-two followers to go ahead of Him, two by two. It’s a humble mission—no extra bag, no security, just a greeting of peace and the message: “The kingdom of God has come near.” (v.9)

The results are stunning. Demons flee, lives are changed, and the disciples return rejoicing. But Jesus gently redirects their focus: “Do not rejoice in this… but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (v.20) The power is real, but the joy is deeper. The truest reason for gladness is not what we do for God, but what God has done for us.

And yet Jesus delights in their joy. “In that same hour, he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit.” (v.21) The mission isn’t just a task—it’s a source of shared joy between the Son and His disciples. The work is hard. But it is full of gladness.

Application
God is still sending people. Not just missionaries, but you—into classrooms, offices, homes, conversations. You don’t need a platform or title. You need a willing heart. When you offer peace, speak hope, serve in love—you are saying, “The kingdom of God is near.”

This week, ask: where is God sending me today? And when you obey, don’t focus on results—focus on Jesus. Your joy is not in how successful you are, but in the reality that your name is known and cherished by the King.

Transform Our Heart Through Prayer
Lord Jesus, you send us into the world with your peace. Let us go with joy. Teach us to speak your kingdom, serve in your power, and rejoice in your love. Write your name deeper in our hearts until it overflows in everything we do.
 Amen.