The book of Matthew ends with Jesus calling us to: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19) This commandment, often referred to as the Great Commission, holds deep significance for every follower of Christ. However, this call to “Go” can sometimes be misunderstood. Many of us might interpret this as a call to travel to distant lands and engage in global evangelism. And, while some will be called to “go” in this way, the Great Commission carries a broader meaning that is deeply relevant to anyone who calls themself a follower of Jesus.
Going, in the context of the Great Commission, doesn’t always mean traveling to far-off countries. Instead, it’s an invitation to shift our perspective and to embrace a mindset of constant readiness to share the love of Christ right where we are. It’s about looking outward, beyond the boundaries of our own lives, and recognizing the opportunities that God places before us daily.
Sometimes, going means recognizing that our workplace, our neighborhood, our school, and our family are all mission fields where we can make disciples. We don’t need to cross oceans to fulfill the Great Commission, we just need to be attentive to the Holy Spirit and look for opportunities to connect with the people around us.
Going involves actively seeking ways to share God’s love. It’s about being intentional in our interactions: demonstrating kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to everyone we encounter. It’s about being light and hope in a world that often feels dark and hopeless.
Jesus’ call to ‘Go’ is really about loving our neighbor as ourself. It’s about caring for the physical and spiritual needs of those around us, and being attentive to mental and emotional needs as well. It’s about being a source of encouragement and support to those who are struggling.
When we embrace the call to ‘Go,’ we discover that our lives take on a greater purpose. We become coworkers with God and we get to witness the transformation of hearts and souls as He works both within us and within those around us. Every conversation, every act of kindness, every prayer becomes a part of God’s redemptive plan and He uses every one of us to extend His kingdom when we offer ourselves to Him as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).
“Going” for Christ is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. It’s a daily commitment to be a reflection of His love and grace. It’s about being open to the opportunities God provides, whether they are small gestures of kindness or significant acts of service.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to follow Him and to seek His will for our lives. For some, this might involve traveling to foreign lands but—for all of us—it means living out the Great Commission in the seemingly ordinary moments of our lives. Let’s embrace the call to ‘Go,’ and let our lives be a testament to His grace and mercy!
thesimplemindedpastor.com 