Always
“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. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matt. 28:19-20)
These verses of Scripture were the gospel reading at my ordination a little over two years ago. They are also the last thing Jesus says at the end of Matthew’s gospel. The gospel stops abruptly right here. We don’t know how the disciples respond to Jesus’ command or what they’re even thinking. We don’t know if they’re confused by what he’s saying or excited. What is clear, though, is that they listened and followed through. Here we are, as a community filled with baptized believers, all thanks to the disciples taking Jesus’ words to heart.
Where I’m at right now in my life, these words of Jesus represent the conclusion of a chapter of my life and the beginning of something new to come. We here at St. Paul know well that goodbyes are hard and difficult, especially when we give our whole selves to one another. How much my own character and life has grown these last two years reflects how well we as community give of ourselves to each other. So, it’s going to be difficult to say goodbye this week, to see each other one last time, to worship together, and then go our separate ways. When goodbyes are that hard, when the relationship is that deep, I wish it were as easy as just stopping the dialogue, ending the story, and leaving what happens next up to the imagination.
But these closing verses aren’t just an end; they’re a beginning. Jesus’ hope for the disciples, and for each one of us, is that even when relationships have to come to their natural conclusion, we still have the excitement, the fun, the challenge, and the hope of the gospel to share with the world. We still have lives to build together with Christ, gratitude to share with our neighbors, joy that’s bursting at the seams to lifted up to God. None of those things change, even if my life with you will.
There’s a reason I picked this passage for my ordination. It’s my constant reminder that life moves on, and it’s not easy. But God’s gift of a new way living in Jesus is now our constant companion. It won’t matter where we live on this planet or whether we’re even in different time zones. The one constant thing about our relationship is that who we are as human beings is shaped by the God who loves us and saves us. Always.
Sam Gross
Well I think you got the message Pastor. Lol.
Sharon Sanyi
We will miss your presence, Mac, and the depth of your character. Your ministry blessed us for two years, and that blessing lives on.
Sam & Dee Gross
Well said Pastor. We will miss your beautiful voice when you sing the great Thanksgiving during communion. 🙂 God‘s continue blessings.
Sam & Dee Gross
Well said Pastor. We will miss your beautiful voice singing The Great Thanksgiving during communion 🙂 Gods continued blessings.
Sam & Dee Gross
Well said Pastor. We will miss your beautiful voice singing The Great Thanksgiving during communion 🙂 Gods continued blessings.
Marcia Willi
You’ve been such a powerful presence in our congregation, Pastor Mac! Thanks for all your efforts and hard work
Marie Lindmark
We felt your beautiful presence among everything St. Paul strives for. Your love and giving spirit will remain.
Diana Holland
Beautifully stated. You will be missed.