Listen

When Jesus and his followers approached Jerusalem, they came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives. Jesus gave two disciples a task, saying to them, “Go into the village over there. As soon as you enter it, you will find tied up there a colt that no one has ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘Its master needs it, and he will send it back right away.’”

Mark 11:1-3

Think

I get annoyed when I hear Bible stories like this. Maybe it’s that I’m jealous of these two disciples. I’m envious of how specific Jesus’ instructions are to them. Not only does Jesus give them a very specific task, he pretty much tells them what to say — words which include explicit authority for them to do as he’s asked.

In my experience, this is rarely how following Jesus works. Sometimes I wish it did. I can only imagine how satisfying it would be to have both clear instructions and an actual script from Jesus. Go here! Do that! And if someone questions what you’re doing, say this!

It’s true, our discipleship may not come with such clear directions. Unlike the original twelve, we do not share space and time with the earthly Jesus. Instead our callings come through an ongoing connection to God in prayer. And there can be a freedom that comes in uncertainty. It’s like Jesus trusts us to decide where to go, what to do, and what to say.

Peter Hanson

Pray

Dear Jesus, sometimes I wish my calling were clearer, my task more clearly defined, my words more carefully crafted. Still, you send me with your own authority, and what’s more, you go with me. Give me the confidence I need to do your work. Amen.

Go

God calls you to shout out loud that the love and mercy of Jesus never end.

Go with strength and courage.

Go with a new “Hosanna” on your lips.

Go, be a blessing in the name of the Lord.