Our scripture this morning is Matthew 28:18-20.
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go 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 I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Our Great Commission comes from Jesus Himself, charging us to go into the world to share His love. He came for all of us, not just a particular group, and His command to go to “all nations” makes this clear. While He was born in Israel, He ministered to a wide variety of people who were not of the Jewish faith. God sent His son to all of us.
Jesus instructs us to “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” This is a public affirmation of our commitment to the kingdom of God. Additionally, we are to be “teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you”, telling the story of Jesus, His love for all of us and the path we are to follow.
Finally, Jesus promises “surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” He said in John 14 God would send “another comforter”, the Holy Spirit to guide and encourage us as we love God, love neighbor and make disciples. We are called to be part of what God is doing in our world.
Loving Lord, we are ashamed of our sins, but amazed that You are willing to forgive us and use us as part of your work. Bless us to go in Your name to share the blessing of salvation with everyone. Amen.
