Nehemiah 8:1-12 / Luke 10:1-12
Going for a trip may sound exciting, especially if we are the type who likes adventure.
Going for a mission trip may sound exciting too, as we would be meeting people and helping them with projects to improve their lives.
But before Jesus sent His disciples on mission, He warned them that He is sending them out like lambs among wolves.
So the disciples had to prepare for danger and rejection.
They have almost nothing with them except for the empowerment from Jesus.
Their mission statement is simply this: The kingdom of God is very near to you.
For those who accepted the message, it will give them hope.
But for those who do not welcome the message, the disciples will just have to walk away and wipe off the very dust of that town.
That will be the sign for those who reject the message, so that they will reflect and maybe even repent later on.
The mission of the disciples is focused on salvation.
May that also be our mission as Christians, whether we face acceptance or rejection.