Sent On Ahead

After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborer into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, “Peace to this house!” And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.” But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, “Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.” I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town. Luke 10:1-12

Today is our diocesan clergy day. It will  be great to gather together after so much time apart. Folks often think that being a clergy person is an easy life. The misperceptions abound, and are only made worse by beloved books, tv series and movies. To truly serve God is to risk it all, to go to places where folks don't want you, and to be open to regular criticism about your sermons, your services, your fashion style or lack thereof, and your family. Very few jobs are this personal. Very few jobs are this rewarding. Jesus sent his disciples out, and clergy are sent out, all to people and places which are unpredictable. May we give thanks for all who are willing to step out in faith!

Loving Creator, you send us out

to places and people we do not know

and you call us to bring them peace

bringing blessing and healing to them.

We often feel inadequate and unprepared

yet yo knew then and understood our fears

help us to be patient with those we serve

and to pray for those who refuse your peace.

Let this day be full of healing and peace

for your people far and wide are broken

welcome and kindness are hard to find

renew your peace in us this very day. Amen.