Luke 10:1-12, 17-20

1. Jesus sent out his disciples on a mission to let people know that ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.' Recall when you have reached out to another, in word or in deed, to help them realize that they were cherished, perhaps by a word of sympathy or encouragement, or by giving a hand with a difficult task. What was it like for you to experience yourself as a person bringing help and encouragement to another?

2. Jesus sent the disciples out two by two. When have you found it beneficial not to be working alone, but with another by your side? How did companionship change the experience? What you were able to achieve together that you could not have done on your own?

3. The instructions Jesus gave the disciples suggest appropriate attitudes for the one who ‘goes before Jesus.' Let the images speak to you and evoke memories of times when you were welcomed and times when you were not. When have you found that it was good news to have the attitudes Jesus describes?

4. When the disciples returned, Jesus warned them not to focus on the thrill of what they had been able to achieve. It was more important that their ‘names are written in heaven.' Sometimes we too need reminders that who we are is more important than what we do. Who have been the people who brought this home to you? Have there been experiences that helped you to appreciate this?