Today we'll begin a series entitled Neighbors & Nations.  The greatest problem facing the world today is not poverty, injustice, discrimination, hunger, or war. The greatest problem is lostness.  The solution to this problem is the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

In this passage, Jesus sends out his disciples to share the gospel and meet real needs.  However, before the disciples are sent, they are called to pray.  Why does Jesus emphasize this act before he sends out his disciples? What can we take as we go to our neighbors and the nations with the hope of the gospel?