Jesus gave His apostles both the power and the authority to speak and to act in His name. He commanded them to do the works which He did – to heal, to free people from the power of the evil one, and to speak the word of God – the good news of the gospel which they received from Jesus.

When Jesus spoke of power and authority He did something unheard of. He wedded power and authority with love and humility. The “world” and the “flesh” seek power for selfish gain. Jesus teaches us to use the power and authority He gave us for the good of our neighbor. That is the kind of authority and power our Lord wants us to exercise on His behalf.

Jesus tells the apostles to travel light; “… take nothing for the journey but a walking stick – no food, no sack, no money in their belts.” (Mark 6:8) “Poverty of spirit” frees us from greed and preoccupation with possessions and makes ample room for God’s provisions. The Lord wants His disciples to be dependent upon Him and not on themselves. He wills to work through and in each of us for His glory. We can handle the power and authority that God wishes us to exercise on His behalf because He entrusts us with His gifts and talents. We need to place ourself at His service, to do whatever He bids us, and to witness His truth and saving power to whomever He sends to us.

“Lord Jesus, make me a channel of your grace and healing love that others may find life and freedom in you. Free me from all other attachments that I may joyfully pursue the things of heaven. May I witness the joy of the gospel both in word and action.”