The Gospel
Matthew 28:16-20
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.”
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This is a short reading, but very powerful. Herein we find the Great Commission. It is in the Great Commission alone that we find that phrase, "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" in all of the Scriptures. And so it seems rather obvious why we read this on this First Sunday after Pentecost, the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity.
The Great Commission reminds us that God has given us work to do on his behalf. Our faith in God the Holy Trinity does not give us the freedom to practice our faith in isolation, not as individuals nor as a community of like-minded people who only talk and act as Christians when with other Christians. Jesus makes it clear that we are to share our faith, to live it publicly, and this make God known in the world.
This isn't a popular message these days in which our society and culture. Sharing with others isn't always appreciated. But maybe it's the way sharing is done that is the root problem. Jesus didn't tell us to shame others for what they believe and act superior to others. But he did tell us to love. He doesn't wish for us to scare others into the Kingdom but rather that we might love them in such a way that by being loved they are drawn joyfully to the source of all love who is God.
And then there is that promise at the end. Jesus does not leave us alone. He promises to be with us always, even to the end of the age. Jesus has assured us that he will never leave us nor abandon us. His love and his presence never cease. That will most certainly preach well!
Father Tim+
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