“Go therefore 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 that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
I can only imagine the confusion of the disciples in the days after Jesus’ crucifixion. They had spent years of their life following a great teacher – someone whom they thought would rescue them from Roman rule, freeing the Jews from other rulers once and for all. But then, they watched as Jesus was betrayed, arrested, died, and buried. The disciples didn’t get it. Not yet.
In the days following Jesus’ resurrection, Jesus had opportunities to open the eyes of the disciples. His time was limited, so what does he tell his followers? “Go tell people about me! And remember, I will always be with you.” I can’t imagine two more important things. Because if we have experienced the love God has for us through Jesus Christ, wouldn’t we want the reminder that Jesus will always be with us? And won’t we want to share this with everyone?
Often time these verses are used to inspire people to travel the world, reaching people who haven’t heard about Jesus yet. But for most of us, our world shrinks down to our local communities where we have a great ability to make an impact. It doesn’t have to be fancy or eloquent. It just takes a relationship with others and some love – no matter our differences.
Beth Marshall
