Matthew 10:40-42
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Today we read Jesus’ final words to his closest disciples as he prepares them for the mission ahead. Read Matthew 10:40-42 stopping to notice anything that stands out as you read.
After all the difficult words of preparation throughout this discourse, Jesus’ final words in this passage are astonishing. To participate in the mission of Jesus as his disciple is to share in Jesus’ relationship with God. And those who welcome a disciple of Jesus welcome both Jesus and God the Father.
Stop to let this sink in for a moment or two. Turn Jesus’ words over in your mind and try to “hear” them from different angles. Then share your thoughts with Jesus.
“Anyone who receives you receives me, and anyone who receives me receives the Father who sent me.”
Read Matthew 10:40-42 again noticing the progression from receiving to giving.
In these few words, Jesus illustrates the multiplying nature of the Kingdom of God. The Good News is not just a personal reality to be cherished and held, the Good News of God’s shalom Kingdom is to be shared. We share Good News every time we welcome the encouragement or correction of God through another person, and we spread shalom whenever we open our hearts and minds to a person who is living a life of justice or right-ness.
And then we pass on the Good News of God’s Kingdom through the blessings we give to others - however small. And the multiplying cycle continues as we are blessed by God because we have been a blessing to others.
For the last few minutes of this meditation, contemplate this cycle of Good News and blessing. Consider the ways you have been welcomed and blessed by others over your lifetime. Each time a memory arises, express your gratitude to God.
Then consider the ways you have been a blessing to others. As you remember these acts of blessing, stop to recognize the smile of God resting on you.
Before you move on with your day, ask Jesus what he wants you to remember or do as a result of his words.
Then make a plan to act on whatever you have heard from Jesus.
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