Remember Jesus Mission
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear Father, I come today to seek wisdom from your Word in how to walk in love with someone in need. Prepare me and give me courage as I see what you have for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. John 10:10 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Recently my wife and I have been re-watching a ten-part miniseries entitled “Band of Brothers” based on a book of the same name by Stephen E. Ambrose. The series dramatizes the history of “Easy” Company, a United States parachute infantry regiment of the 101st Airborne Division during World War II. Watching this drama, we are getting a very small taste of the brutalities of war and the cost of such conflict. During this war, the U.S. and its allies were committed to stopping a menacing enemy in Hitler and his Nazi regime. History was changed because of the struggle and ultimate victory, though costly, earned by the courageous men and women involved. “The thief” (Satan) from our text today is committed to “steal and kill and destroy” by all means of deception possible. Ephesians 6:12 – “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” This is no small conflict or choice of how to live. This is all-out war against a powerful enemy. Jesus’ mission is to rescue and redeem mankind in this battle. He has recruited us to join him in this battle through his great commission (See Matt 28:19-20). This is a battle not for land and governmental rule but for souls and eternal destination of life with God for all that would put their trust in Jesus.
APPLY:
Each day we must prepare by putting on our spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10-16) and remembering the mission we have before us. We walk with one another, strengthening and encouraging one another because the battle is real, and the cost is high. The mission is Christ’s. The victory is his as we remain faithful and fight the good fight together. “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12
CLOSING PRAYER:
Dear Father, we acknowledge that the mission is yours and we ask your strength for today’s spiritual battles. We face life’s challenges alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ. We claim victory through the powerful name of Jesus. We pray also for those in our military and law enforcement today. Be with them and keep them safe. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
CONTINUED READING:
Luke 19:1-10; John 20:26-28