Jesus' messengers and their significance in Finland

Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

Second Edition

Gospel Luke 10:1–12 Jesus’ Messengers

Then the Lord appointed seventy-two more disciples and sent them two by two ahead of him into every city and village he himself intended to visit.

He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest. Go, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Do not take a purse, nor a bag, nor sandals. Do not greet anyone on the way. And whenever you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ If anyone is there who deserves peace, your peace will come to him. If not, your peace will come back to you. Stay in that house, eating and drinking what is set before you, for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is set before you, heal the sick in it, and tell everyone, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ But if you are When you enter a city and are not welcomed, go out into its streets and proclaim, ‘Even the dust of your city that clings to our feet we wipe off – be it a blessing! But know this, that the kingdom of God has come near!’ I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for that city.” (Luke 10:1–12 Second Edition)

Finnish history and the influence of Christianity

Christianity came to Finland about 1100 years ago, bringing changes to traditional beliefs. If the gospel had not been brought to Europe, Finland might still be living under some form of pagan religion. For example, in Lapland, shamanism is still a strong part of our cultural heritage. Although shamans have offered help as healers, it must be emphasized that Christianity has brought a new kind of peace and hope to people's lives.

Without the gospel, our lives could be very different. Questions about the meaning of life and peace would still remain unanswered. However, the salvation brought by Jesus opens up possibilities for us that we never dreamed of before.

The gospel teaches forgiveness and connection with others. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross offers us the opportunity for forgiveness and a new beginning. He said, "Take courage, your sins are forgiven," and this message is still strong.

In today's world, many people are struggling in their lives and are looking for a place of refuge. Jesus calls us to share this message of grace. We have the opportunity to continue the work of the first disciples and be a light in the darkness.

The Christian faith is not just personal. It is communal, and every believer should share their vision. God’s grace is for everyone, and our task is to pass it on to those in need.

Offering New Life

We have a huge task as ambassadors of Jesus. We must proclaim the message that brings salvation and new life. The Gospel teaches us that everyone who believes can receive the gift of new life. Through the influence of the Holy Spirit, we receive the power to participate and draw people to Christ.

Living in Christ means actively participating in the work of the gospel. It is not just waiting, but acting by offering people hope and peace. The journey as an ambassador is not always easy, but it is rewarding. Sharing the gospel can happen in many ways: through personal conversations, volunteer work, or organizing events. It is important that we use our gifts and work together.

Collaboration is important, because none of us can do this alone. When we act together, we can experience the power and community of prayer.

Summary

The message of Christianity is universal and intended for everyone. The messengers of Jesus have been important in the development of our independence and culture. Reaching out with the message of salvation requires courage so that we can share our faith.

If we do not listen to this call, we may lose the opportunity to influence those who need a message of hope. We must find meaning in Christ.

Spiritual growth takes time, but together we can strengthen our faith and face challenges.

The work of the messengers of Jesus has continued for centuries. We are all part of this greater whole, where we are called to share the message of Jesus.

Let us reflect on our history and culture; we can see how Christianity has influenced our lives. Jesus is our hope. His message is still powerful today. We must not forget the mission given to us. The courage to share the gospel can help us overcome the obstacles and boundaries that separate us from one another.