Devotional 46. Jesus is Always With Us

Matthew 28:18-20 (CSB). All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. 19  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, 20  teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Perhaps you have seen or spoken with someone who is convinced that the world is ending soon--and maybe you agree with them! Here is some generic evidence that is often listed to suggest that human life on this planet might not last much longer.

• Global conflict and chaos

• Natural disaster and environmental issues

• Moral decay and individualistic self-preservation

• Spiritual deception and "false" teachings

• Globalism in commerce and politics

• Technological and scientific developments that raise moral and ethical questions

For you, which of these "signs" seems like a legitimate measure of a coming "doomsday"?

Of course, every generation has to deal with these types of "disruptions" to expected norms. And some civilizations have had their "apocalypse" moments throughout history--like Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, or 14th Century Europe and the Black Plague. Of course, the world did not end, but many saw "their" worlds end. In truth, the phrase "end of the age" simply means "end of an era." It does not have to imply the utter destruction of the world. It can mean "transformation" as well. Thus, Jesus will be with us "until the world is changed."

While it may seem that these "signs" are ever present and growing daily, the truth is technology and social media make them feel more prevalent than they truly are. This is not to deny that Jesus said he would return again (Mark 13:30-33; John 14:3; Rev 19), and that his return would mean complete change for the world in which we live.

But I would like to use these ideas to help us focus on missions for a moment.

• Jesus says that he is with us always. This idea should promote comfort and security (the job of the Holy Spirit according to John 14:16). We are not a people of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind (2 Tim 1:7).

• His presence is also power for us. The elements of this world do not have power over us. We are in the hands of Jesus--and no one can take us from his hand! (John 10:29)

• The chaos of the world is not meant as judgment on us. We are saved and protected by the grace of God. We are free from God's judgment and wrath because of Jesus' death on the cross. Thus, we can move in and around the chaos and changes of the world without fearing the wrath of God within it. (Rev 7:3)

• This does not mean we may not "suffer" in our world, but suffering is a sign that we share in the ministry of Jesus--if we suffer for the right things. (1 Pet 3:14)

So, remember this! Jesus tells us "I will be there with you." This is a statement that gives us confidence and authority. He add "always." He will never leave us, nor will he forsake us (Heb 13:5; Deut 31:8). What a great promise for those who love God and are pursuing his mission!

Pray for confidence in your mission calling and your trip itinerary. Pray for each of your fears about the trip--that God will provide and help you overcome these fears. Pray that God will use your trip to initiate change in the world--change that will lead to the coming of the Kingdom of God wherever you are.