Sunday | Overview - Matthew 26-28; Mark 1-2
February 2, 2025
This week's reading covers Matthew 26-28 and Mark 1-2. Things start to get very real. Through the end of Matthew, Jesus is in his last moments with the disciples, betrayed by Judas, convicted and crucified, resurrected from the dead, and reunited with the disciples. In one of the most familiar verses in all of Scripture (Matthew 28:19-20), known as the Great Commission, Jesus says, "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 all that I have commanded you. And, behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
We are called to share the Good News message of eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. FCA uses the E3 strategy (engage, equip, and empower) to accomplish this mission. We engage others relationally, equip them with the Word of God, and then empower them to do the same with others.
As I read through these Matthew chapters, the verses in the garden of Gethsemane where Jesus walked away from the disciples to pray captivated me. His betrayal and arrest loomed. Although he was fully God, Jesus's human emotions began to overflow as he anticipated the horror of his trial, torture, and crucifixion. His soul became "very sorrowful" (Matt 26:38). He is so distressed that even knowing what he must endure for the plan of salvation to be complete, he still pleads for it to be another way. "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will." (Matt 26:39)
What stood out to me in this reading was this: Jesus stayed on mission.
He was willing to stay on plan despite his human fear. His desire was God's desire (His will) to be done over his.
Are you staying "on mission" as a follower of Christ? When times get tough, do you lean into trusting God's goodness and faithfulness or, do you find yourself moving away from things like prayer that keep you connected to God? How do you find encouragement in the times when it's difficult to stay "on mission"?
Devotional provided by:
Dana Caldwell, FCA Administrative Assistant – Cincinnati, OH