Go! But what if we rather stay home?

Christians often speak about the Great Command and the Great Commission. In short: to love, and to go out and share that love.

The first and greatest commandment can be found in Matthew 22:37, You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.

It is followed by a second one, which is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself. The great command signifies the heart of the Law and the writings of the Prophets.

The so-called great commission can be found in Matthew 28:19, Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

'Professional' missionaries

That part about loving God and others, we do our best, don't we? But when it comes to the going... we often leave that up to people who are called to travel, to 'professional' missionaries. People who feel called to go.

And yes, history teaches us that men and women were called to go to specific countries, like China, Africa, or Siberia, to share the love of God with people who had never heard that good news before. Their stories are very inspirational, and their newsletters and books are a must-read for every believer.  

More than a cry for evangelism

The call to go is not just a New Testament cry for evangelism and missionary work; it is an ancient call that has always shown the heart of God the Father. It has always been His desire to bring forgiveness and salvation to all nations (Luke 24:47-48).

My mercy and justice are coming soon. My salvation is on the way. My strong arm will bring justice to the nations. All distant lands will look to me and wait in hope for my powerful arm (Isaiah 51:5).

God's heart

Someone who took this call very seriously was the prophet Isaiah. He was commissioned to bring Israel back to God. As a matter of fact, God told him: You will do more than restore the people of Israel to me. I will make you a light to the Gentiles, and you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth (Isaiah 49:6).

That got him off the couch. Salvation to the ends of the earth, that's the heart of God. Think about it! 

Your nation

Maybe your heart is bleeding for your own nation, city, or street. Far away or right next door, it doesn't really matter... There is always room to share God's love. 

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Declare his glory among the nations, his wonders among all peoples!

[Psalm 96:3]

➤You might enjoy this song: His glory and my good.