At that very time He rejoiced greatly in the Holy Spirit, and said, “I praise You, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, for this way was well-pleasing in Your sight.” (Luke 10:21 NAS95)
They returned full of joy and reported amazing things. Jesus had sent 70 out to spread the news of the Kingdom of God, to heal the sick, and cast out demons. These select 70 went with no provisions and in total dependence on the invisible King. They engaged in what Jesus asked them to do, and could not wait to tell Him the results. They, themselves, had actually experienced the Kingdom of God and how it worked. Sure they had watched Jesus depend and commune with God and look for His activity. Now they had done it. That made all the difference in the world.
Jesus could not contain Himself either after hearing the news. He exploded with joy from the Spirit and immediately spoke to His Father over hearing the report from the 70. When Jesus had sent them, He knew His Father would show them His faithfulness and activity. The actual impact on the 70 exceeded His expectations. Jesus perceived their hearts now fully captivated by the Kingdom and their lives indelibly integrated with its workings. These sent ones received the revelation of the Father, understanding the Kingdom as more real and operative than anything else they knew. They understood God, the King, as lovingly present everywhere to them. All they had to do was attend to Him. Their experience of the Father brought them immense joy, and Jesus rejoiced in their experience of the One He loves and Who He knew loves them and the world around them. Kingdom. Love. Joy. Presence. Prayer. Engage with God.
For Reflection:
“For You, O LORD, have made me glad by what You have done, I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands.” (Psalms 92:4 NAS95)
- What in your journey with God has brought you the most joy in life?
- How aware are you of what strengthens your soul in your relationship with God? What are the things you would identify that put life in you?
