THE GREAT COMMISSION

Last words are powerful.

Sir Winston Churchill’s last words were, “I’m bored with it all.” Classic Churchill. Emily Dickinson, a poet to the end, uttered these last words before she passed, “I must go in, for the fog is rising.” Jesus, a man whose 33 years on earth changed the world forever, left us with a clear commission and a potent promise in His last words, recorded in Matthew 28:18-20.

“Go and make disciples” and ”I am with you always.” It’s not a nice thought. It’s not a suggestion. It’s not for just those who are great at talking to people. It’s not for just people with a theology degree or ministry title. This commission and this promise are for every person who follows Jesus.

What is a disciple? The word “disciple” simply means someone who is following Jesus. Jesus’ final words are for us to bring people closer to Him.

How do we do that? By uncommon love. By actually seeing the people around us. By sharing our story of how Jesus has impacted our lives. By loving others when they may feel unlovable.

We read in John 13 that when we love one another with the same uncommon love that Jesus has loved us, it will show everyone that we are His followers. By practising some of the counter-cultural habits we have read about, forgiveness, humility, and putting others first, we show the people in our world that there is a better way to live. We also draw them closer to the captivating love of God.

Daily Prayer

God, help me bring people closer to you today. Give me the words to say and the encouragement to bring. Help me to forgive others and put them first. Show me how to love those in my world as you first loved me.