Contemplative Bible Reading

Matthew 10:16-18 (New Living Translation)

16 “Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves. 17 But beware! For you will be handed over to the courts and will be flogged with whips in the synagogues. 18 You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about me.

Jesus is sending His followers out to teach the world the good news. Jesus will provide an opportunity for His followers to tell the rulers of the world of the good news.

Wow! Great! Right?

Here come what is today known as “other duties as assigned.” The other duties include wearing chains and shackles while speaking to rulers.

Funny how God’s ways often don’t match with our ideas of the way to accomplish things. Funny how God’s ways cause us to jump back and seek another route.