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,
teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.
And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
    Matthew 28:19-20

 
I was coming home from school late one night and stopped for a Coke and some much needed caffeine. As I entered the store, I noticed a sign that read, “Open – 24/7”, indicating that the business never closed! I could only laugh because as an Athletic Director, I knew the feeling. The AD is the person walking around with the most keys; they are the first to turn on the lights and the last to turn them off. AD’s work alongside the school administration, manage their coaching staff and serve as the public relations expert in their community. Oh, and along with everything else, there’s the mountain of paperwork that goes with the job. Paperwork related to eligibility, inventory, and ordering new equipment just to name a few. The price that goes with all those keys is the responsibility of always being there.

Too often in our Christian walk, we fail to understand what Jesus commanded of us. Do we think of ourselves as being on call for Jesus 24/7? The Great Commission lists three commands. First, Christians are to go and make disciples. Second, we’re to baptize these new disciples in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Third, we’re to teach them to obey the commandments of Jesus Christ. That can’t be done on Sunday alone. It’s a 24/7 process! It’s possible Jesus has given YOU the key that will open heaven’s door for someone you know. Are you willing to share the love of Christ with that person in the middle of the night, if that’s what it takes? Jesus isn’t asking you or me to do something He’s not already doing. He tells us we’re not alone in our task. Wherever we go and whatever we do, He is with us.

Thank You Father for Your constant presence in my life. Teach me Lord that You are a 24/7 God! Give me Your strength as I strive to fulfill Your Great Commission today. Amen.