Sunday, October 20, 2024  

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Today's Scripture
Matthew 28:16–20

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (NRSV)

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Reflection

You will notice some themes to these devotions over the next few weeks. Today we begin several explorations influenced by the long-range plan of Fourth Church. You do not need to be connected to Fourth Church to benefit from these devotional readings, because we will be focusing on important spiritual practices. We will reflect on the lifegiving practice of connection and friendship, the work of mission, and the spiritual practice of generosity. But first, we look at the practice of spiritual nurture.

The last word that Jesus shared with his disciples was an exhortation to share what he taught and to welcome others to worship. The result might be that they become followers of Christ. I have evolved in my faith regarding this passage over the years. There was a time when I was convinced it was my calling to make my neighbor Christian. I now think it’s more important for me to simply be Christian to my neighbor. The only life you can be Christian with is your own. If we are faithful enough, perhaps others will find it inspirational.

If that is going to happen, we will need to be attentive to our own spiritual journey. Jesus talked about baptism — or worship — and being attentive to his teachings. In devoting time and devotion to these, we ground ourselves in the story of grace that makes sense of our lives. This story declares that you belong to God and therefore your life matters. Every moment matters.

It is easy to get distracted by things that don’t matter, but pausing the rush to the week to worship and reflect again on the teaching of Christ keeps us focused, grounded, strong, and even joyful. He gave us these instructions not as a rule that we must follow, but as a gift that we might be able to embrace the grace of every day.

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Prayer
God of grace and glory, I give you thanks for this day. It is a day that has never been lived before but comes fresh and new. Be in my eyes that I might see the signs of your grace that are renewed with each day. In Christ’s name. Amen.

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Written by Tom Are Jr., Interim Pastor

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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