MAKE DISCIPLES
Read John 1:43-51
“The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, He said to him, “Follow me.” – John 1:43 (NIV)
In the Gospel of John, it is expressed that Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, (who became one of his disciples), He said to him, “Follow me.” Then Philip, in his excitement and rejoicing to follow Jesus, found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”-John 1:45 (NIV). Philip followed Jesus to Make Disciples. Do you remember the first time you followed Jesus to make disciples? Are you excited like Philip?
Last Friday, January 12, 2024, early in the morning there was snow all over the parsonage’s lawn and driveway. My daughter, Marie, and my wife, Myra, decided to build a snowman. They were very excited about going outside to make a snowman for the first time despite the cold weather. They wrapped themselves in their warm, puffy winter coats, and wore their winter boots and gloves. When we stepped outside the parsonage, I felt the breeze of the cold weather. It flashed back and reminded me of the first time I entered the McDonald’s restaurant’s walk-in freezer with a temperature of -10°F. While I shoveled the snow out of the driveway, I saw the joy that was brought to them while making a snowman, which made me glad, especially when they finished making not only one snowman but two.
How much more is the joy of our Lord when we follow His 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. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”-Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV). According to the Gospel of Luke, Jesus said, “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” -Luke 15:10 (NIV).
May we always be excited to follow Jesus’ calling to make disciples. Do not let our situation diminish the joy of sharing the Goodnews with others. In our simple ways, we can share the joy of heaven by sharing the love of God with others and bringing souls to Christ. Let us shine like Jesus always. “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” – Daniel 12:3 (NIV).
Prayer: Dear Lord, inspire us to do your will. Grant us the confidence to share the Goodnews with others and make disciples of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Enrico R. Esguerra MBA., M.Div., M.Ed., D. Min.
(St Mark UMC & Bradley Wesley UMC)
Prayer Focus: THOSE WHO NEED CHRIST
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