^16-17 Meanwhile, the eleven disciples were on their way to Galilee, headed for the mountain Jesus had set for their reunion. The moment they saw him they worshiped him. Some, though, held back, not sure about worship, about risking themselves totally. ^18-20 Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: “God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.”  Matthew 28:16-20

When all of this agony of the cross is said and done, we, as disciples of Christ, are left with a commissioning – go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded. What has Christ commanded? Christ has commanded us to love – love G-d and love each other.  Do we need to be commanded to do this – or shouldn’t love be instinctual? From my observations of this world, I think we are a people that has obviously forgotten how to love one another. I think it was a problem for the 1^st century Jew and Gentile, and it continues to be a problem for the 21^st century Christian, Jew, Muslim, and Buddhist.  “All you need is Love” goes the song…but, often, it isn’t that easy. The hardest part of loving others is loving our enemies—loving those who have hurt, harmed and/or disappointed us. But remember, love is a commandment—not a suggestion.

Pastor Dave