Our scripture this morning is Mark 16:14-16.
Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”
The Great Commission contained in the Gospel of Mark appears in a section known as the longer ending, which was added later. There are many debates about this historically, too many to cover here. However, the material in these verses agrees with what has been recorded elsewhere and most importantly, agrees with what Jesus said and did.
The Great Commission from Matthew (Matthew 28:16-20) is longer and a little more eloquent, but the message is the same – we are all called to share our faith with the world that they may believe and be saved. He has entrusted His ministry to us, using the gifts God has given us. Jesus showed us what a life in God can be like and now it is our turn to live and love as He did.
We have a responsibility as the disciples of today to continue to tell His story to everyone and care for each other according to God’s plan. Our Father needs no help, but He has called us to be part of what He is doing in creation from the very beginning. He sent His son to save us and we are to carry the Good News everywhere.
Loving Lord, we are often led astray by the lies of the world, but Your word is the eternal truth. Help us to see Your face in all we meet and to be Your hands to those who need You. Amen.
