Matthew 28:19-20

Recently I preached on “life verses”, particular scriptures that can speak to us at different steps along our life journey. Since then, I have shared some verses that have been mentioned to me by various friends in the faith. And there are some scriptures that I like to share with others.

One favorite life verse is

 ¹⁹ 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, ²⁰ teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.”

Matthew 28:19-20

These are recorded in Matthew as the final words spoken by the resurrected Lord Jesus to His disciples. They are known by Christians as “The Great Commission.” While I find great purpose in what Jesus told us to do, I also find great comfort in the final thought:

 “I am with you always, to the close of the age.”

One of my favorite off-Broadway (and off-beat) musicals is a one-man play called “The Cottonpatch Gospel.” The play is based on a southern American translation of Matthew’s gospel, and Jesus, in the play, ends his time with his disciples (the band) with a promise –

“Remember, I’ll be hanging in there with you – ‘til the last inning!”

Good news. Jesus will never leave or forsake us. He is always here.

Prayer

Thank You, God, for making the closing words as promise of constant presence. I cling to the fact that You cling to me daily. Amen.