Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room
March 23, 2022
Read Matthew 28:1-16
16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. 18 Jesus came near and spoke to them, “I’ve received all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 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, 20 teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you. Look, I myself will be with you every day until the end of this present age.”
Good Morning, Go and make disciples of all nations!
As children of God who accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are called to go and make disciples of all nations. This calling is applied to us all to complete each within the scope of our own gifts. We are to joyfully serve with love and without judgment.
When we first accept Christ, we are nourished and cared for by God and by our mentors within our community of faith. Just as young children need to be fed and have all their needs met, the new believers need to be fed by reading the Scriptures and praying with God. They learn through the example of those around them. Over time, they start to take responsibility for their own sustenance and even to share experiences with new converts within the community.
Then, they begin joining in outreach opportunities first based within the community or church, but like the woman at the well the more they learn as they are filled with the living water, they yearn to share the word with others. At this time, much love and support are needed because sharing outside the community of believers can be a scary or daunting task. Some will go out with confidence, some will need to be given a nudge, and some will discover that they are not quite ready and will return to the Scriptures to find their “wings”.
When we share of ourselves, we become vulnerable, but in our vulnerability, we find our greatest blessings. We are called to “go and make disciples of all the nations.” “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you” Deuteronomy 31:6
Each of us matures at different times and we each have our own gifts to share. Trust in the Lord that when you chose to follow him in faith, you will never be alone. Are you ready to follow? Are you ready to soar?
Loving and Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. Once again, it comes back to trust. We are afraid to go and share your Word with those we don’t know. Yes, we believe, but what if they laugh or mock us? What will we do then? Thank you for protecting us as we grow. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: I can take flight in my faith journey because I know God is by my side.
Embrace your calling! Pastor Liz
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