Jesus Commissions the Disciples (April 29th)

Season of the Church Year: Easter (white)

Story in Scripture: Matthew 28: 16- 20 

As we follow the stories following Easter, it is shocking to acknowledge what a strange season it has been for the disciples and followers of Jesus. There were surely so many mysterious, wonderful, surprising, and trying experiences that they were beginning to grow weary. As Jesus commissions, or sends out, the disciples to continue the work that Jesus himself began, we can only imagine the power of his words. In the book of Matthew, we read, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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.” These words are not just for the disciples, they are also for all of use, young and old. This is an important story because it reminds us that God has equipped us to so many things. Today, your child’s teacher explained that Jesus sent the disciples out together, with the skills they needed to teach and baptize, and to demonstrate God’s love near and far. Soon, on Pentecost Sunday, we will also be discussing the ways in which the Holy Spirit joins us in our daily lives. Often, this story can be intimidating because we are tempted to think that we don’t have what it takes. I encourage you to talk with your child about the gifts that they have to love others and to share the Good News. They will be bringing home a copy of the ‘Great Commission’; perhaps you could hang it in a special place or read it regularly as your child grows in the understanding of God’s commission for them.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder how the disciples feel being close to Jesus?

I wonder how they feel as Jesus sends, or commissions, them out to show the way of the kingdom of God?

I wonder what each of them will do to show the way of the kingdom of God?

I wonder what they will tell about Jesus?

I wonder how they feel to have Jesus with them always, even when they can’t see Jesus?

I wonder how they know that Jesus is with them?

I wonder if they will always follow Jesus, even when they can’t see him?

I wonder how they feel when they hear Jesus say, “And remember, I am with you always, until the end of the age?”

I wonder how it makes you feel to hear those special words?

Prayer:

“Father, I love you and am so glad that you are here with us during all our struggles and in the dark times. Help us to love one another and to remember that you walk along the “road” beside us, even when we are confused. Amen.”

Looking Ahead:

We will be learning about Jesus’ ascension into Heaven. You can read ahead with your child in Luke 24:44-53; John 14-17, and Acts 1:1-11