OPENING DOORS

OPENING DOORS

READ:  Matthew 28:16-20

Therefore go and make disciples

of all nations.  -  Matthew 28:19

Charlie Sifford is an important name in American sports.  He became the first African-American playing member of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) Tour, joining a sport that, until 1961, had a “whites only” clause in its by-laws.  Enduring racial injustice and harassment, Sifford earned his place at the game’s highest level, won two tournaments, and in 2004 was the first African-American inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.  Charlie Sifford opened the doors of professional golf for players of all ethnicities.

Opening  doors is also a theme at the heart of the gospel mission.  Jesus said, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Hoy 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” (Matthew 28:19-20).

The word nations (v.19) is from the Greek word ethnos, which is also the source of the word ethnic.  In other words, “Go and make disciples of all ethnicities.”  Jesus’ work on the cross opened the way to the Father for everyone.

Now we have the privilege of caring for others as God has cared for us.  We can open the door for someone who never dreamed they’d be welcomed personally into the house and family of God.     BILL CROWDER

Lord, help me to be sensitive to others I meet today.  Give me the words to tell others about You.

Jesus opened the doors of salvation to all who will believe.

INSIGHT

In today’s passage Jesus gives what is known as the Great Commission:  “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”  (Matthew 28:19-20).  We carry out this commission when we testify to the death and resurrection of Jesus, who offers forgiveness of sins, and when we teach Christ-followers to obey God’s Word (v.20).  SIM KAY TEE

Have a blessed night.

God Our Creator’s Love Always.

Unity & Peace