“Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.”
– Matthew 28:16, 18-20
Last Friday, I read an article in the Gazette, in which the writer wrote of changes taking place in peoples’ attitudes toward religion, churches, and spirituality. She quoted a number of scholars and researchers and put forth several interesting points. A number of thoughts went through my mind, thinking the subject was much more complex than a rather short piece could possibly cover, and that these comments were a little shallow, but I also realized how important it is to think and talk about the issues raised.
Churches are human institutions, and it’s entirely possible they can veer off track, or get in a rut, losing sight of their basic purpose — that which is quoted above from the Gospel of Matthew. These words of Jesus are often called the Great Commission, which tells us in simple, yet challenging words what we are called to do as the people of God. I remember as a youngster thinking that these words were the call to be a missionary, I suppose because of the “go therefore to all nations” tone. But look at the second part of this command: “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” There’s a tall order! Jesus’ teachings included a lot more doing than talking. But we have the promise that Jesus is with us always, which means he will give us strength, guidance and abilities we may not think we possess to take on these tasks.
This is where churches, congregations, and their institutions can be effective, as we can learn and share together, support and care for one another, and combine our resources to go far beyond our communities. There are many ways to share the Good News, whether it’s by providing disaster relief, building a hospital or a school where there is need, or operating a local mission that includes a food pantry, but we have tremendous opportunities by working together.
Your Friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers