When I saw what the text was for this week’s study, I thought, “Oh,
good! This is one of the most familiar and appreciated texts in the
New Testament. Full speed ahead!”
Ten minutes later, I had not typed a single word. Then, I took time
to play a couple of rounds of Word Trip, a fun game on my phone.
Next, I moved to the TV and watched “Chain Reaction,” one of the
popular programs on Game Show Network. I stopped by the refrigerator
and grabbed a couple of frozen grapes. Refreshing! I sauntered back
to my computer. I have the power setting to shut off my screen when
it has not been active for thirty minutes. My screen was blank.
Why did I have so much trouble getting started on this study? It has
dawned on me that I did not want to look at these verses because over
and over again they convict me of failing to be a faithful disciple.
For starters, there are eleven disciples present, not twelve (v. 16).
When have I chosen to step apart from the work of Christ? Some of the
ones who gathered had doubts (v. 17). When have I not trusted the
promises Jesus had made? Our Lord tells them to “Go” (v. 19). When
have I preferred to have things stay the way they have always been,
rather than leaving and going to some new place some new experience,
some new relationship? Jesus sends the disciples to all nations (v.
19). When have I chosen to draw a line in my relationships, choosing
my preferences, rather than the “all” to whom Jesus sends me?
The Master instructs the disciples to baptize in the name of the
Trinity (v. 19). When have I given more attention to human
distinctions than I have to the work of God? And Jesus tells the
eleven disciples there to be teachers (v. 20) of all He has taught.
When have I been a picker and chooser of what I wanted to pass on?
Finally, our Savior calls on the disciples to remember that the risen
and ascended Lord will still be with them (v. 20). When have I gone
about my spiritual journey and mission as if Christ were no longer
present?
I’m beginning to see why it took me so long to start typing these
reflections.
What Someone Else Has Said:
William Lawrence, (When the Church Woke,
Cascade Books) wrote: “Love is humbling oneself to the needs of a
neighbor...”
Prayer:
As you prepare this lesson, let your prayer begin: “Send me,
Lord...”
