Daily Word - The Power Of Humility - Luke 9:1-6

Scripture:
Luke 9:1-6 (English Standard Version)
Luke 9
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles 1(A) And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2(B) and he sent them out to(C) proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3(D) And he said to them, "Take nothing for your journey,(E) no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics.[a] 4And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. 5And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town(F) shake off the dust from your feet(G) as a testimony(H) against them." 6(I) And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Footnotes:
Luke 9:3 Greek chiton, a long garment worn under the cloak next to the skin
Cross references:
Luke 9:1 : Matt 10:1; Mark 3:13-15; 6:7
Luke 9:2 : Matt 10:5, 7, 8; Luke 9:11; Luke 10:1, 9
Luke 9:2 : Luke 9:11, 60; Luke 4:43
Luke 9:3 : For Luke 9:3-5, Matt 10:9-14; Mark 6:8-11; Luke 10:4-11; 22:35
Luke 9:3 : Mark 6:8
Luke 9:5 : Acts 13:51; Neh 5:13; Acts 18:6
Luke 9:5 : Mark 1:44
Luke 9:5 : James 5:3
Luke 9:6 : Mark 6:12

Reflection:
How do you handle power and authority, both spiritual and temporal? Jesus gave his apostles both power and authority to speak and to act in his name -- to cast out evil spirits, to heal, and to speak the word of God. When Jesus spoke of power and authority he did something unheard of. He wedded power and authority with love and humility. The "world" and the "flesh" seek power for selfish gain. Jesus teaches us to use it for the good of our neighbor. Why does Jesus tell the apostles to "travel light" with little or no provision? "Poverty of spirit" frees us from greed and preoccupation with possessions and makes ample room for God's provision. The Lord wants his disciples to be dependent on him and not on themselves. He wills to work through and in each of us for his glory. Are you ready to handle the power and authority which God wishes you to exercise on his behalf? The Lord entrusts us with his gifts and talents. Are you eager to place yourself at his service, to do whatever he bids you, and to witness his truth and saving power to whomever he sends you?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, make me a channel of your grace and healing love that others may find life and freedom in you. Free me from all other attachments that I may joyfully pursue the things of heaven. May I witness the joy of the gospel both in word and deed.