My Struggle to 'Go'

Jesus' marching orders to every Christian and to every church is found in what is commonly referred to as the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). The primary command is to make disciples--and we are to do this by going, baptizing, and teaching others to obey God's commands.

Jesus commands us to 'go'--but I find it real easy to justify and rationalize something quite different. After all, I worked hard on the sermon this week--they should come to hear it.  Or, I have too much to do on my 'to-do-list'. Or, if I'm really honest with myself--I don't love others enough to get out of my routine and comfort zone. Ouch!

Excuses are nothing new. When Jesus called out people to follow Him and be His disciple...

 - Some insisted that they needed to care for their elderly parents first (Luke 9:59-60).
 - Some insisted that other matters needed to be put in order first (Luke 9:61-62).
 - Some were willing to follow but not until they knew all the details (Luke 9:57-58).
Sadly, it's the same today.

We fail to 'go' insisting that our priority is at home. Or we are comfortable where we are. Or we have a fear of failure or rejection. Or we are so busy in doing other 'good' things that we fail to obey the most basic of commands given to us (and then wonder why so much of what we do is lacking in spiritual power!).

Henry Blackaby points out that often, we look at the success we're experiencing doing what we're doing (whether it is church-related or work-related) and use that as an excuse to not 'go.'  But Jesus often called His followers elsewhere even in the midst of success. Peter had just pulled in the greatest fishing haul of his career--when Jesus called Him to leave it and follow Him (Luke 5:1-11). Philip was experiencing great success as an evangelist when God called him out to the desert (Acts 8:25-40).

Our own priorities, fears, and successes can all be a hindrance to going where Jesus wants us to go. How willing are you to 'go' and make a disciple?

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