The kingdom of God is near. Peace be with this house. Luke 10:1-11,16-20

Jesus was journeying to Jerusalem, and the cross, although he was the only one who knew how it would end up. Before they get there, he sends 72 disciples out, in pairs, to the places he was about to go to, with the simple message: The kingdom of God is coming near. Peace to this house. In terms of personal items they carried, it was minimalist. They would be given whatever they needed: food, drink and support at the places they were going to.

The kingdom of God was very near, because Jesus was about to go into their villages and towns, but the disciples discovered that sharing the message of Jesus did bring healing and hope to people. They also discovered that they carried a real gift of God’s peace that could be passed on.

In the sermon we reflected on how we might bring the kingdom of God near to people this week. Simple things like showing care and compassion do that. We can also say, if it is appropriate, “Well, I’m praying for you that God……” , or “This Bible verse really helps me, and now I’m giving it to you.”

Passing on faith can be very challenging, when our work mates show no interest at all in what we did on Sunday in terms of going to church. It is very challenging when our adult children show no desire to hear any ‘God talk’ from us. Have that painful conversation with our Saviour about how that feels. Then explore what it might mean to pray for them in a non-anxious way.  Trust that seeds that have been sown will germinate, and you may not get to see that. Know that your love for your children and grandchildren is only a pointer to the immense, personal love that our heavenly Father has for them.

Don’t lose heart.