So here’s my theme word for 2017. Are you ready for it?
Go!
Pretty simple really. The dictionary defines it, “to move or proceed.” In other words, get moving. Get started. Get after it. You get the idea.
This was Jesus’ final word to his disciples before he ascended into heaven. “I’ve been given all authority in heaven and on earth, so I commission you: GO and make disciples of everyone, everywhere. Baptize them and teach them to obey everything I’ve commanded you.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
Apparently he was serious about that. Because no sooner was he out of sight that we read in Acts 1:10-11 “They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. ‘Men of Galilee,’ they said, ‘why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go.’” (NIV)
Now. Let’s face it. If you or I had just seen a person get sucked up into the sky like a human balloon release, we’d be staring too. But two angels show up and ask “What’s up? Why are you still here? He told you to go!”
The implication being, “He meant now.”
So they did. On the heels of that commission, the book of Acts records that the apostles started going, literally everywhere. I’m reading through it right now and I’m struck by the fact that it’s not called the book of “Thoughts” or “Intentions” or “Moral Ideals.” No, it’s all about acts, about going. From the very first chapter to the last, you’ve got people going to everyone, everywhere. Peter and John going, Phillip going, Paul and Barnabas and John Mark and Silas…all going. And as they were going, they were investing in people, making disciples, living out the way of Christ and teaching others to do the same.
The final words of Jesus are for us too. Go! Live out the Gospel, all the teachings of Jesus, and help others do the same. This is what it means to make disciples.
I don’t want an angel to have to show up at my house to ask “Why are you just standing here?” For me, this year is all about “Go!”
- I want to help more people invest their lives in what matters most to God. Go!
- I want to share the Gospel through itinerant speaking and teaching. Go!
- I want to help more couples live out the Gospel in their marriage. Go!
- I have several book projects that I’ve been sensing God wants me to write. Go!
- I want to help more people figure out their life mission and act on it. Go!
Maybe you feel like you’re just standing and staring. Or even going the wrong way. I’d love to help you get on the right track, to figure out how you can best live out the Gospel with your life. You can find out more at: https://brucewmartin.com/coaching/ Not sure you can afford coaching? No worries. At Invest Your Life Ministries, we don’t think that discipleship is limited to those who can “afford” it. You just tell us what you can afford (even if it’s very little) and we’ll get to work!
So what about you? Where do you sense the voice of Jesus saying “Go!”
Photo courtesy of Brigitte Tohm
GO is 67% of GOD’s name š
and yes we have been hearing this same thing from the throne room…
It is indeed time to fulfill this great commission
love to you and yours Bruce,
Paul Jab
Thanks Paul! Never thought about the 67%. I like it!
One time, I was going the completely wrong way on the freeway, full throttle even, and I didn’t even know I was lost. I was going the absolute opposite direction than I desired and I just drove merrily along listening to the radio. Full steam ahead. So I thought. I got so far along the unintended path before I realized it.
I think life can be like that. You can be lost and not even know it. But you’re fine. The road is good. You’re not in any danger. You’re just going in the completely wrong direction. I think you need someone, either a spouse, voice on a GPS or a sign that tells you your off and you need to TURN AROUND. I think you’ll be that person in many people’s lives, Bruce, that will get them going in the right direction. Towards God.
I’m so happy for you. And for all of us that you’ve helped put on the right path toward the abundant life.
That was my story for years Devry. Going along, had the world by the tail. Until I found that treasure hidden in a field…and it changed everything! Thank you for your encouraging words. Praying for you and Curtis too!