Moving Upward Together: Day 40

 

Day 40, “Go Out, and Be the Church” – Pastor Dave

The Presbyterian worship service, like most things we do, is conducted “decently and in order.” We start the service in preparation for the Word of God read and proclaimed. The worship concludes with the various acts of responding to God’s message. The pastors conclude their portion with the charge and the benediction. I use this time to reinforce the sermon or to sneak in one extra point I didn’t make earlier. Each charge starts differently, but they all conclude the same way. I encourage you all to “Go out and be the church.” It is one of the most powerful messages I can deliver, and it is a constant reminder that we need to embody Christ in all of our interactions.

Of course, this isn’t the last reminder we get. Just above the vestibule exit is the words, “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.” These are Jesus’ final words to the disciples in Matthew’s gospel. In the military, soldiers would call this a “standing order.” This is a charge we need to keep no matter the circumstances. It needs to be a part of our collective spiritual DNA. Go therefore and share. Go therefore and forgive. Go therefore and teach. Go therefore and heal. Go out and be the church.

St. Francis of Assisi is credited with saying, “Preach the gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words.” May our actions bring pleasure and glory to our God.

“Sending God, you call us daily to take up our cross and follow you. Give us strength and courage for the journey ahead. May our words and actions exhibit your kingdom among friends and foes alike. Amen.”