Jesus said, “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
A few weeks ago, I was fortunate to serve as a counselor at Senior High Camp at Laurel Ridge. The week included eighteen from our congregation: ten campers, two other counselors (Heather Allen and Paige Lanier), and four M-staffers. The program had been written, in part, by Dewey Mullis, one of the deans of the camp.
The program for the camp was “Thy Word: Message from the Master.” Each day’s theme focused on the ways God speaks to us, and our response. I was reminded that one of my favorite authors, Frederick Buechner, wrote, “Listen to your life. Listen to what happens to you because it is through what happens to you that God speaks … It’s in language that’s not always easy to decipher, but it’s there, powerfully, memorably, unforgettably.”
When Jesus spoke to the disciples and gave them the Great Commission in Matthew 28, it was a challenge for them — and us — to share the Gospel and make more disciples. In addition, these words also contain an important promise: “I am with you always.” God’s presence is not occasional or distant — it is constant. Because He is always with us, He continues to speak to us in ways that strengthen us, guide us, and encourage us in our faith.
God speaks to us through God’s word, and through the quiet leading of the Holy Spirit. And the Lord often speaks through the people God places in our lives. A sermon, a Bible study, the wisdom of a mature believer, or even a timely conversation can become the means through which God reminds us of His truth. I’ve learned that God also uses circumstances to open and close doors, teaching us to trust Him even when we cannot see the whole picture.
While the world is filled with distractions, we need moments of quiet prayer, regular time in Scripture, and a willingness to obey what God reveals. Often, we can hear our Savior’s voice in the steady assurance of His presence and the peace that comes from walking with Him.
Remember that the One who sends us also goes with us. May we seek not only to hear God’s voice, but also respond with willing hearts. As we walk faithfully with Him, we will discover that the Savior who promised to be with us always is still speaking, leading, and working through God’s people today.
In Christ,
The Rev. John G. Rights
