Today’s Reading
Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: “God authorized and commanded me to commission you:” Matthew 28:18 MSG
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
Therefore Come
During our ‘Out of Commission’ series Pastor Gabe preached on the verses that are known as the “Great Commission” (Matthew 28:18-20). He discussed how our mission field is exactly where God has placed us at any given moment. The “go” in “therefore go” is not necessarily thousands of miles away. Our responsibility and command is constant: we are to make disciples wherever we are. Sometimes though, that “go” is thousands of miles away for some of us. We may feel this nudge on our heart to go on an international mission trip but are not quite ready to say yes.
When we start answering His calling, the devil may begin to work overtime. The enemy will tell us that we are not qualified, not equipped, or not spiritual enough to go. Perhaps life and work back home while you are away are keeping you from going, or maybe it is the fundraising that seems impossible. The first twelve followers of Christ were ordinary people like you and me, and look how He used them. The great thing about not being enough is that we are loved by a Father that is beyond enough. He does not call the equipped, He equips the called. His provision is proved over and over again in the Bible.
I love The Message translation of Verse 18, “Jesus, undeterred…” It is time we follow His lead. We should be undeterred in seeking to reach the lost and making disciples. The cost for not obeying that command is far too great. It is about time we start giving Jesus what He paid for. Maybe we should think of “Therefore, go” as “Therefore, COME.” He is already there. As in everything, He has already gone before you and prepared the way for you to serve. He will be with you every step of the way and will take care of everything you leave behind, as we are reminded of at the end of His command in Verse 20. Our God does not answer our obedience with abandonment. If He has placed the desire to go on your heart, do not be sidelined by the enemy’s lies and distractions. He has called you for a specific purpose and will equip you in every way needed.
Reflection
Have you thought about international REACH? Do you feel like this is something you are supposed to do, but are hesitant or do not feel like you have what it takes? Ask yourself two questions: Do I love Jesus? Do I want others to know about that love? If you answered yes to both of those then sign up, He will take care of the rest. If you have never given international missions a thought, I challenge you to ask God to reveal to you how you should be involved.
Prayer
Father, I ask that you start a fire within me to share the gospel relentlessly to those around me. Let my utmost desire be to serve you and further your kingdom no matter where I am. Allow me to lay down my life for you and your will. Use me in whatever capacity you feel fit to win souls for Christ.