Today we continue in the story from Matthew 10, in which Jesus is sending his disciples out in mission to the world. The spirit of the undivided life is captured through his words in verses 26 and 27.
Matthew 10, selected verses
16 “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. 17 Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. 18 On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, 20 for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
26 “So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27 What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Reflections
What does it mean that what is concealed will be disclosed, and the hidden will be made known?
Notice that what we often feel when we are exposed—fear—is what Jesus says we don’t need to worry about. Do not be afraid! The light of truth, which exposes all that is false and evil, will set God’s people free, once and for all. The God who takes care of the sparrows is the same God who will take care of you.
Prayer
Merciful Father, you work out everything in this world for the good of your children. Remind us that we are your beloved sons and daughters, and sinners though we are, you know us and love us now and forever, so please help us not to be afraid, but instead to trust in you. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
