“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘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.'” (Matthew 28:18-20 NIV)
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
I’m not sure about myself. When I read the definition set out in the following paragraph, I first think that I must be an introvert. But when I read on, I conclude that I am an extrovert.
“Typically, introverts tend to enjoy more time to themselves, are very aware of their internal thoughts and recharge more in solitude. Extroverts can be just the opposite. Extroverts are often more outspoken, outgoing, and absolutely love being around other people.”
Perhaps, like me, you may conclude that you have elements of both.
As I think back to the time when I grew up with four older brothers and a sister, I can remember elements of both traits in all of them. In my own family, the same is true.
Now, with a larger extended family in the lovely home in which I am privileged to live, I can see both factors in play with so many — sometimes in different ways from time to time even with the same people.
So, I conclude that it may not be possible to give an accurate answer to my opening question. However, it needs to be considered in relationship to today’s verse, where Jesus commanded us to go and do, just before He ascended into heaven.
Do you, like me, sometimes feel too introverted to follow Jesus’ command? Or, like me, do you feel so extroverted that you might do more harm than good because you are too pushy?
I am convinced that God cannot use you or me if we sit on our backsides and do nothing.
On the other hand, God is an expert at correcting our mistakes if we at least try to help others, try to show His love for one another, and try to do what we can to fulfill His great command.
After more than eight decades of making mistakes, I am living proof that God can correct for them if we at least try.
I can’t count the number of times that I have said something or done something that I later regretted. Perhaps, in this digital age, I have sent an e-mail or other electronic communication that would have been better if not sent.
But at least I keep on trying to follow the Great Commission. My personal challenge that I share with you today is at least to keep on trying!
What a wonderful privilege that you and I both have to be part of the God team!
Prayer: Dear Father, it is difficult to comprehend fully why You have chosen to give us the privilege to be fellow workers with Jesus and the Holy Spirit in spreading the good news of the gospel. Help us to be faithful and to keep on trying, even when we make mistakes. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Vincent Walter
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Reprinted with author’s permission from PresbyCan
