“Limit Yourselves” (Matt.10:11-15) [Spanish Jerusalem Bible Series - Matthew 10 sub-series]

“Hang around he who is worthy, until
You leave such places your task to fulfill”;
hasta que salgon (until you go out)
Has implication, which leaves little doubt –

In minds of readers, “Your space is confined –
Freedom of movement comes later, so mind
You don’t just flit ’round and do this or that –
Focus attention, or work will fall flat”.

“Work for the worthy first round of your trip;
Workman deserves what sustains, don’t just sit
Thinking the world will sustain every need;
It won’t; so heal, while you scatter the seed”.

Serious business these guys start to do –
“If not accepted, bang dust off your shoes
As you leave town, they lose out in the end;
In the last days on their heads will descend –

“Justice for them, for their sick ways of life
(Pretty unworthy and not very nice);
If they can’t hear you, that says about them
They have low interest in life that amends.”

Lord, in this passage I hear dual themes –
Givers, receivers, should heed what it means –
Givers keep focus and stay with your task;
If you’re receiver, it’s best that you ask –

“Are these two strangers Your answer to prayer,
Seeking me out and exhibiting care?
Maybe I’ll listen, take peace that they say,
Open my heart to their healing today”.

We must attend to each opening here;
Best to pay attention, share words that are clear;
Not being sidetracked by flitting around
Chasing some rabbit down hole in the ground –

Or chasing birds as they flutter through woods,
Never achieving the things that we should;
Sure, their acceptance is half of the scene,
Some tasks take diligence – that’s what it means.

Thanks Lord for this.

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