May 26, 2002

Matthew 28:16-20

Meanwhile, the eleven disciples were on their way to Galilee, headed for the mountain Jesus had set for their reunion. The moment they saw him they worshiped him. Some, though, held back, not sure about worship, about risking themselves totally.

Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: "God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age."

<The Message>

=======

1. So what are you headed toward? Might you be headed for a reunion with Jesus and GOD this very afternoon? Tomorrow at the latest? Does it make a difference for you to expect this sort of short-term reunion as opposed to one in that never-never-land of post death?

What would it mean to expect to find a reunion in your family gathering or your workplace or among your friends or in the midst of strangers?

2. Is a first response to life that of worship or doubt? At various times in your life you have probably been in both places. Both have their place to play. Do you find yourself having a usual first response to life - to throw yourself into it or to hold back? Is that good for you or do you need to work on balancing out your responses?

3. Interesting that Jesus was "undeterred" in the presence of doubt or even rejection. His meaning was clear - make GOD as well known as possible - make our relationships as clearly loving as possible. How clear is your meaning? Will you stop with the outward sign of baptism and instructions from the past or will you move on to living out of baptism into facing the temptations of life and being ready to learn more than Jesus was able to teach while with us in the flesh? How do we honor the meaning of life?

Homepage | Sermon Prep