National Lutheran Schools Week: Making Disciples of All Nations For Life
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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”’ (Matt. 28:18-20).
It’s important to complete assignments. College students know that failing to complete their assignments will result in a bad grade. Professors are used to giving assignments, but they also have other assignments outside of class, like special committees or campus projects. Sometimes, assignments feel like more of a burden than a blessing. We may respond to some assignments grudgingly or even resentfully.
The Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20) is also The Great Assignment. Jesus’ assignment to the disciples to “make disciples of all nations” is his assignment to the church. The disciples were to share the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead and the assurance of salvation for all who were baptized and believed in him. The church continues to “make disciples” by baptizing people into the Christian faith and sharing the hope we have in Jesus Christ.
We thank God for the professors, pastors, and students who are faithful disciples here at Concordia. As disciples, we respond to Jesus’ assignment humbly, knowing that we have the privilege to be the hands and feet of Jesus, both for the church and the world. We also respond by praying for hearts open to the mission field before us. Whether our mission field is a dorm hall, a classroom of college students, or our families at home, we pray that Christ would use us to make disciples who follow him.
Every day, in a multitude of ways, the assignment to make disciples is before us as a privilege. We thank God for the gift of Lutheran schools and how he uses them around the world. As a Lutheran university, we are proud to carry out the assignment to make disciples. In verse 20, Jesus promises, “Behold, I am with you always,” giving us everything we need to complete our assignment. May God bless us as we complete all of our assignments, especially the assignment to “make disciples.”
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for making us your disciples through the power of your Word and baptism. Help us to hear and complete your assignment to “make disciples of all nations.” Help us to be faithful disciples now and always. Bless our witness in the church and in the world. Amen.
Elizabeth Ascher
Sophomore, Secondary English Language Arts Education
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