“Jesus sent out these twelve after giving them instructions….” (v. 5)

Remember that prayer?

The one where we added our hearts to Jesus’s passion, where we prayed over a ripe harvest, and where we prayed for the Lord to send His workers into it?

Guess who is the answer to the prayer:

Disciples.

In history, it was these Twelve, chosen of Christ to be His first learners and ambassadors. They were given a specialized ministry with especial spiritual power. And—don’t miss this—they were totally dependent upon the grace of God.

I know it’s easy to think that all of that was only for them way back when. But let’s get real:

Their calling—their role in answering the harvest-worker prayer—is our calling, too. It foreshadows our own disciple-lives. This is for us!

A disciple is sent. A disciple brings Good News. A disciple depends on God’s provision. A disciple proclaims, hopes for peace, and keeps moving if peace isn’t found. A disciple meets people, hears needs, and ministers with prayer and practice. A disciple goes—even if conflict, adversity, and accusation are all assured.

You and I are the answer to the prayer of Matthew 9. Matthew 10 is simply the handbook.

So…will you go?

— Tyler