The Great Commission

Today’s devotion was originally published in The Upper Room.

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Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”  - Matthew 28:19

Every year I return to my family’s beach house for a time of rest and relaxation. While there, I visit the park where my family and friends planted trees years ago. What completes the scene are the natural inhabitants of this area — ovenbirds, woodpeckers, and larks.

Early one morning, I noticed the larks flying down to the park with their chicks to teach them to find food. Each day for several weeks, I observed the larks searching the grass for insects while their chicks chirped, eager to be fed. Under the watchful eye of the parents, the chicks gradually ventured farther and farther away.

While watching these birds, I saw a similarity with my faith journey. Early in my journey, I relied on more mature believers to teach me the word of God. Over time I learned the importance of prayer and maintaining a strong bond with God. Even as I continue to grow in my faith, I wonder: Do I move forward, confidently taking flight to carry the message of salvation to others? Or do I remain close to the nest because I am not yet ready to fly?

God calls us to active discipleship and to preach the gospel to all creation. With God’s help, we can answer this call.
 
- Ana M. Buela (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
 
Today's Prayer
God of creation, grant us the wisdom and strength to grow in our faith and become more like Jesus, earnest in sharing the gospel with others. Amen.

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