Tuesday 23 October, 2018

16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

I have had a new start at work in the last few months. While some things were familiar, there have been lots of new challenges and situations. It has helped me remember that new starts represent opportunity and offer hope.

Our God is a God of new starts. This meeting of Jesus and his disciples is a powerful reminder of this part of God’s character. This encounter with the risen Jesus represented a new start for the disciples, and through them all the nations. What better encouragement for the disciples in that moment to have a risen Jesus before them! What they had thought was the end was now an incredible new beginning.

Basically Jesus was telling them they were to be life changers from this moment on. Just as Jesus had changed their lives, he called them to impact others for Him. It is the same for us now – to impact others so they become disciples too. It’s not just up to Jesus, he needs us to be life changers too. When you think about it, I am continuing Jesus’ purpose, and he has authorised it! This is really incredible as God doesn’t need me to do this as he can call everyone to Himself if he chooses to. However he involves us, we are his spokespeople. What an amazing God!

Dear Jesus, The wonderful words you spoke in verse 20 are such a comfort. As I take the opportunities that appear to share you, I know you are always with me. I am looking for new starts in sharing you this week. Amen

Written by Claire Moore