Our scripture this morning is Acts 20:24 (NLT).
But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.
Paul knows that “jail and suffering” await him on his coming journey to Jerusalem (Acts 20:23) but as Jesus did, he continues in faith. He tells us “my life is worth nothing unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus.” While there is earthly opposition to the spread of the Gospel, it is what we are called to accomplish.
Jesus told us that as His disciples we would face persecution and hate in the world. He also said “But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). In Matthew 28:19 He commanded us “go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” This is the assignment Paul mentions here.
We are called to follow the path of Jesus just as Paul was. We may never travel to faraway places to share the Gospel (but we might!), and there are plenty of opportunities to represent Jesus right where we are. All we have to do is accept the forgiveness He offers and share that blessing with those around us.
Loving Lord, You sent Your Son to save us from ourselves. Thank You for Your love and forgiveness. Send us to tell the Good News everywhere. Amen.
