“Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation. (‭Acts‬ ‭13‬:‭26‬ ESV)

I was reminded yesterday of a significant assignment I have been entrusted – to share the message of Jesus with other people.

It is easy to get in a routine of “receiving” from God, while inadvertently forgetting to “give” away what I have freely received!

Having been sent out by the church, Paul and Barnabas found themselves in Antioch of Pisidia (modern day Southern Turkey) in a synagogue, declaring the message of Jesus Christ.

In his message, Paul boldly declares, “to us has been sent the message of this salvation.”

God gave Israel first priority to receive salvation through Jesus. Paul’s practice in his missionary journeys was to go first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.

Beyond that, God gave Israel the privilege to be the first to share that message of salvation to the world. Peter stood boldly on the Day of Pentecost and declared to the nations of the world that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

Today, I have been given these same privileges! The message of Jesus Christ has been given TO me, so that I can receive every benefit of salvation, healing, deliverance, and victory!

But this message has also been entrusted by God to be conveyed THROUGH me to everyone I touch.

How beautiful are the feet of those who BRING good news.

Father,
Having received the salvation of Jesus Christ, I am honored to share that message with the world. Freely I have received, now I freely give.

Grant me wisdom, opportunity, and boldness.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.