the next step

"Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it." Mark 16:20

I began the day yesterday with a very early morning run. Stealing some time away (before anyone awoke) to be alone with the Savior was the most perfect start to the day. As I watched the sun rise with it's vibrant, glowing hues of pink, purple and yellow, I smiled wondering if this was what the morning might have looked like those 2,000 years ago. Then, like many others, my family and I attended Church where we gave thanks for our many blessings, celebrated the day we call Easter and called it a day. But Jesus wasn't finished when the stone was rolled away and Resurrection day passed. Oh no... He was just getting started. As we should be (getting started that is).

After the resurrection, Matthew 28:16-17 tells us that, "the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted." His true disciples were not merely content with celebrating Easter, they were ready for the next step in what Jesus had planned for them and followed his instructions to meet him on the mountain. And this is where Jesus revealed the most important "next step" in the life of a believer... when He spoke these words, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go 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 I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (v. 18-20)

We are the disciples now, the believers commanded to fulfill "the great commission" and the plan that Jesus has for his followers. The Easter celebration may be over but our work has just begun. Are you ready for the next step?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the joy that we have in our hearts after celebrating your resurrection and the new life that it brings to all those that believe upon the name Jesus. Help us to be emboldened and strong as we begin the work you have assigned your followers. May we tirelessly strive to make disciples of all nations, beginning where we are with what we have. No excuses. No looking back. But pressing on to the task before us knowing you have equipped with us with everything we need to persevere and claim victory in your name. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Send me, I'll go - Lecrae

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5y7iRVG3Eo