Am I Not Sending You?

Our theme for this week is that God is a Missionary God and our scripture reference is down right inspirational - John 20:21 says, "Jesus said, 'Peace be with you!  As the Father has sent Me, I am sending you.'"  What a great opportunity!  We are being charged with the same direction as Jesus Himself!  You may be thinking that this is a rather daunting task and you are right!  However, Jesus knew we would think this and prefaces his instruction with "Peace be with you!"

It is also important to note that Jesus does not give as the world gives.  In John 14:27 He says, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  More encouragement comes from Jesus in John 16:33 - "I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."

Another time that Jesus mentions sending His disciples is in Matthew 10:16 - "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.  Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves."  What does this mean?  1 Corinthians 14:20 explains further - "Brothers, stop thinking like children.  In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults."

I love the example the Bible gives us in Judges 6:14 when God tells Gideon, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand.  Am I not sending you?"  My response would be similar to Gideon's in verse 15 when he says, "But Lord, how can I save Israel?  My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family."  How many times has God asked us to do something and we answer, "But Lord......"? (you fill in the blank)  Thankfully we serve a patient and loving God who answers in verse 16, "I will be with you".

Not only will God be with you, but Jesus also prays for us.  In John 17:15-18 Jesus prays to the Father, "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.  They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.  Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.  As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world".

May the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.  Amen.