Healing hands
Matthew Chapter 10 – 12:21
The healing stories continue today, but with a darker edge. Jesus sends out his disciples with authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness, but warns them of the resistance and abuse they will face in doing so.
“Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves,” he advises.
But even amid the darkness and warnings, the same kind of compassion we read about yesterday is visible.
“Come to me, all you are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest,” he says.
And, quoting from the prophet Isaiah, Matthew repeats the reassuring words, “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.”

Saturday meditation

Proverbs 25:23-25
Like a north wind that brings unexpected rain is a sly tongue—which provokes a horrified look.
Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.

Prayer focus
God, when we face things that scare us, remind us that you are our source of strength and comfort.

-Rev. Mark Fleming