I opened my Bible to Luke 10 to reread the story of Mary and Martha. Once again, where I started my study is not where I ended. I found myself reading the entire chapter but kept returning to the story of the 72[1] disciples. Specifically, Jesus’ comments to these disciples upon their return from their appointed mission captured my attention (v17-21).
These disciples were ecstatic. Returning from their successes, they proclaimed to Jesus that “even the demons submit to us in Your name” (v17). I can imagine them smiling and high-fiving each other for the great works they completed. I can imagine them looking to Jesus for affirmation, like a child waiting for her parent’s approval after bringing home a good report card. I can relate to that feeling of joy after a successful endeavor. I have created e-learning programs that worked beautifully and felt proud of my accomplishments. I have packed food boxes at the local foodbank and felt gratified that I could help. Don’t we all rejoice when our plans fall into place?
But Jesus’ reply gave me pause as I imagine it paused the disciples’ celebration. First, in verses 18-19, Jesus let them know that of course they were successful, and He already knew of their success. He had seen the fall of Satan. Moreover, why would He have expected less than success? He had given them authority to do the work that He had commissioned. Secondly, in verse 20, Jesus reminded these disciples that the work they had successfully completed was greater than they had imagined. Because of their good deeds in the name of Jesus, their names were written in heaven.
Why did Jesus’ reply resonate with me? It reminded me in different ways of how I should view successes in my life. Verses 18-19 inspire me to move forward confidently. If I am using my God-given talents to accomplish a goal—at work, for the church, in the community—I should expect success knowing that God is with me. If I am doing what He has called me to do, I can step out boldly and confidently. I should expect success.
In verse 20, Jesus told these disciples that because of their good deeds in the name of Jesus, their names were written in heaven. From that, I extrapolated[2] that it is the impact of the success that matters, not just the successful completion. For those disciples, it was not that the demons submitted to them, but that because of those submissions, people were healed. People were saved. People believed. Somebody’s life changed for the good. Completing the mission is the penultimate success. The benevolent impact on others of that completed mission is the ultimate success.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)
Be it in the workplace, at the church, or with a mission, I owe my success to being equipped by God with the talents, skills, abilities, and resources to accomplish the goal. So instead of jumping for joy with pride at my success, I jump with joyful praise that I used those talents for His glory. Because I finished the task assigned, that successful task helped others in some way. Someone was better able to do their job. Someone would eat a nutritious meal. Someone’s burden was lightened. Someone was saved. Therein lies the success. So, I am happy I successfully completed my mission, but I rejoice more that the mission will impact others.
Reflection: What is success for you? What are you working on today? How will the completion of that task impact others? How will you know you are successful?
[1] Some Bible translations indicate 70.
[2] This may not be theologically accurate, but it’s my blog and my insight. 😊
I do whole heartedly agree with your feelings. The joy of seeing your efforts positively affect someone else’s life is the great joy that can be felt here on earth. Using the talents that you possess is the greatest praise that we can give to our creator. Keep up the good work, I am sure doing my best to do so.