“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
“The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” - Luke 10:1-2, 17-20
For all of our accomplishments and abilities.
For all of the time, energy, and study.
For all of the places, we seek to find value, significance, and worth.
The invitation of Jesus is to rejoice not in what we have done, but in what He has done. We don’t rejoice even in our own works on behalf of Christ - but rejoice in the once for all work of Christ to ensure right relationship with God, everlasting life,
and eternal joy.
What accomplishments have turned from joy to pride or boasting in your heart?
What might it look like to rejoice in the work of the Lord today?