Jesus left you here to make disciples.
Pandemic or no pandemic, as followers of Christ, we are called to one mission. So, regardless of what the world throws our way, it must not interfere with our job (the Great Commission) to make disciples of all nations.
But there seems to be a gap between knowing that truth and living it out. Countless Christians are allowing circumstances, people and/or themselves to rule instead of Jesus.
Many Christians are making excuses, not disciples.
Not making disciples is NOT a viable option.
We’ve got no excuses as Christians.
The Bible teaches us in Hebrews 12:1-2 (see below) that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. They have gone before us blazing the trail, facing great adversity and yet they advanced the Kingdom of God no matter what.
They were able to maintain focus on the mission by keeping their eyes on Jesus.
“Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever.” (MSG – emphasis added)
Practical tips for staying on mission during a pandemic:
- Stop waiting for things to “get back to normal.”
- Be open-minded because we’re going to have to do things differently.
- Commit to being mission-minded, no matter what.
- Get creative, find new ways to interact with people.
- Pray and ask God for His eyes to see the hungry who are STILL around you, even on a Zoom call.
- Determine to reach out to others weekly.
- Focus on the exhilarating finish in and with God! You’ll hear “well done” that way!
Start today because Jesus is coming.
Revelation 16:15 says, “Keep watch! I come unannounced, like a thief. You’re blessed if, awake and dressed, you’re ready for me.”
Jesus promises to return unannounced, like a thief. If He returns during this pandemic, will He find you making disciples or excuses?
Excuses only satisfy those who make them. They don’t work with God. So get going! You still have a job to do!