It's Not the "OK" Commission

Sometimes I forget about the Great Commission. As if it’s hiding away in Matthew - a passage of power, directive, and promise, just slipped into the book as an afterthought, a little “by the way.” But that’s not true. It’s not the “lousy commission,” or the “maybe commission.” It’s the Great Commission! It’s got oomph!

So maybe I don’t forget so much as avoid it. With His authority, this is what Jesus tells His followers to do. He tells them to travel far, speak boldly, make a difference. That’s a pretty big deal. What if I’m too afraid, don’t know what to say, or feel insignificant? What if I don’t know how? 

Jesus tells the disciples to share of the miracles they saw, the things they learned, the risks they took; the bruises and blisters, cuts and scars they acquired; the long and cold nights, the responsibility, the meltdowns and times of doubt; when they leaned on each other and laid their heads in Jesus’s lap, and when they discussed and laughed with each other and with the Son of God over food and drink, or around a fire. He tells them to speak from where they are, and who they are. He tells them to share an opportunity with those who don’t yet know the wonder of living life with the King. He knows the gravity of this send-off; He knows what’s coming for His followers: ridicule, persecution, exile, death. And yet He still tells them to go. Because it’s not the “meh commission.” It’s great. It’s one of the most important things a follower of God will ever do. It’s no surprise, then when Jesus tells His followers that He’ll be right by their side, no matter what. 

When the One who has all authority, who gave me this responsibility and gift and path to take, says that He's with me until the end of the age, I know I’m covered. And I know, despite the fear and risks, that I want to be a part of something great. 

Matthew 28:16-20

A Father's Loving Words

And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17)

Anyone who has had a difficult childhood, longs to hear these words. What a priceless moment for Jesus, but also for those who witnessed it. 

Society today encourages us to achieve more and more. We tend to believe that our lifestyle, when successful, defines us. Things are important as we feel the need to acquire the latest gadget or sport the newest styles, drive the fastest car. Living an unobtrusive life isn’t an option for many.

Look now to Jesus, the one who truly is above all and is to be considered superior in every way. Jesus lowered himself to be one of us, to take on human form. Reading the scripture selection for today, it is striking how very powerful these words are; a tremendous witness to the world.

Jesus asked John to baptize Him, as he had been baptizing those who were following him. (Matthew 3:13 “Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.”) John wasn’t prepared for this and he told Jesus that it should be Him baptizing John. Jesus in all humility responded and asked John to do it anyway. (Matthew 3:15 “Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.”)

Dear God, I want to hear you say the words to me which you said to Your Son, Jesus. I want you to be pleased with me too. Lord show me how to live as Jesus did, with humility and grace. Amen




Matthew 3:13-17

John 3:16-24

This is probably the most familiar passage in the Bible, as even those not counted as Christian, have seen these words on signs at ball games and sporting events and now recognize them as from the Bible.  I find that even those passages I am so very familiar with often reveal a new truth or message when I read them.

For example, a few weeks ago these same verses were on our reading list.  When I glanced over the text I noticed a sentence I had never seen in the numerous times I have read this.  After this, Jesus and his disciples went out into the Judean countryside, where he spent some time with them, and baptized. (John 3:22)

Well, it happened again when I read the text for today I saw something brand new to me.  "Now John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water..." (John 3:23)  Did you notice the reference to there being plenty of water?  Did you ever see those words before?  It caused me to check further and learn the word Aenon, means a place of many springs, which probably explains the statement.

The lesson for me today is to always look at the scripture with fresh eyes.  I know God often will reveal something to me today that would not have impacted me last year.  As I grow and learn and live, Scripture takes on a new life and meaning every day.  It is truly "alive and active" (Hebrews 4:12)

Read the John 3:16-24 text here.