It seems appropriate that today’s Bible reading coincides with our kickoff at Baxter (and many other Southern Baptist churches) of a special season: the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions. Matthew tells us, “Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb” (28:1). But when they arrived at the tomb, they were told, “He is not here, for he has risen” (28:6). And the resurrected Jesus met his disciples 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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (28:18-20).
The gospel has come to us and, now, we have the joy of giving it to others.
God speed the day, when those of every nation
“Glory to God!” triumphantly shall sing;
Ransomed, redeemed, rejoicing in salvation,
Shout Hallelujah, for the Lord is King.
“All pow’r is given unto Me,
All pow’r is given unto Me,
Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel,
And lo, I am with you alway.” --James McGranahan (1886)