Jesus warns the local towns what is in store for them as they reject Him. Their future is not good news. He continues as He is about to send the seventy two out to do as He has asked them:
Whoever listens to you listens to Me; whoever rejects you rejects Me; but whoever rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me. Luke 10:16
Today you are invited to read these words carefully again and consider their significance. Think about the responsibility of speaking about Jesus and His message to others in a way they can hear and understand. How do you feel when they accept your words as the truth and turn to Jesus? How do you feel when they reject your words and turn away from Him? Consider your words. What part has Jesus played in your discussions with these people? Have you invited Him to be a third party so it is His voice they have heard? Can you change the way you speak about Him, or the way you witness to Him in your life-style? Or is the rejection purely their choice. Ask God for the wisdom to know whether you should make changes or you should let their rejection go. It is their responsibility to make the final choice. Make any changes you feel need to be made for the next time, and let go of any feelings of inadequacy or guilt for they are not yours to carry.
May God bless you with the right words and the right attitude when you speak of kingdom matters to others.