November 3 – Sent to the Ends of the Earth
Mission is not first about sending missionaries overseas, but about becoming a people so shaped by God’s love that the world, near and far, cannot help but notice. Lesslie Newbigin
Gregg’s Reflection
When I hear the words of the Great Commission — “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations” — it can feel overwhelming. The world is so big, the need so great. How could my small life possibly matter?
But Jesus’ words in Acts 1:8 bring it closer to home: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Notice the order — it begins right where we are. For the disciples, Jerusalem was home. Judea and Samaria were nearby regions. Only then did the circle widen to the ends of the earth.
For me, that means mission begins in my own home — with Genie, with my children and grandchildren. It extends to my neighbors in Estes Park, to the people God puts in my path. And from there, who knows how far God’s witness may ripple out? God does not need an attorney, just a witness of how God has moved in your life.
The Spirit empowers us for each circle. We are not asked to do it all, but to be faithful in the place where God has planted us, trusting Him to carry the Gospel further than we could ever imagine. I have no idea who might be touched by this devotion, but I trust God and put it out there.
Scripture
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:8
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, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.
Matthew 28:19–20
Ancient Quotes
For when the apostles had received the command to go and teach all nations, they did not hesitate at the greatness of the task, but immediately obeyed. For it was not they who worked, but the grace of Him who sent them.
Origen, Commentary on Matthew
It is necessary first to sow in one’s own land, and then to extend the hand to foreign nations. For the one who has not cared for his own house is not fit to instruct others.
Gregory the Great, Pastoral Rule
Modern Quotes
Proclaiming the gospel to a lost world cannot be just another activity to add to the church’s crowded agenda. It must be central to who we are. It forms our identity.
Francis Chan
Mission is not first about sending missionaries overseas, but about becoming a people so shaped by God’s love that the world, near and far, cannot help but notice.
Lesslie Newbigin, The Gospel in a Pluralist Society
Journaling Prompts
- What does “my Jerusalem” look like — the people closest to me who need to see and hear Christ’s love?
- How has God already expanded my circle of witness beyond home?
- Do I sometimes think mission is for “others” rather than for me? Why?
- How might I open myself more to the Spirit’s empowering presence today?
Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 44 Reflection: Teaching/Proclaiming/Witnessing