Reflection for the Week of October 2

By Rev. Dr. Jenny Smith
 

FOCUS Scripture: Matthew 28:19

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.
 

On this World Communion Sunday, we consider the mission statement that Jesus gave to his church as he prepared to ascend into heaven. At the time, Jesus’ followers were concentrated in Jerusalem and Galilee. Jesus tells them to “go into all the world” so that all people can hear the good news of God’s grace.

This week your daily scriptures contain stories of how Jesus and the leaders of the early church ventured into new spaces and crossed human boarders in order to live out this global mission. As you read consider how this mission includes both the sharing of grace for the salvation of individuals and the extending of grace which allows us to live in beloved community as diverse individuals.

 
Our Methodical Way

Begin with the morning blessing and focus scripture. Stop at mid-day for the Lord’s prayer. End the day with the evening prayer and daily devotion.

• Sunday: Read Matthew 28. Who was the first to carry the news of resurrection? What mission does Jesus give the church?
• Monday: Read Acts 8:1-17. How did God use hardship for good?
• Tuesday: Read Acts 8:26-40. Why is this encounter so surprising?
• Wednesday: Read Acts 10. This holy encounter inspires us to ask: Am I listening when God prompts me to share him with others?
• Thursday: Read Acts 13:13-44. How did Paul connect with the local audience? Look for ways to make faith relevant when you share.
• Friday: Read Colossians 3:1-15. Seek one take way from this verse which will help you contribute to harmony in God’s community.
• Saturday: Sabbath