“Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, … and when they saw Him [Jesus,] they worshiped Him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 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.’”
(Matthew 28:16a, 17-20 ESV)
Have you ever heard of the “mopping-up” stage of a war? It’s what we call the time when it’s clear to everybody who has won this war, but there’s still fighting going on.
This is the mopping-up stage of Jesus’ war. The devil knows he has lost—he has known it ever since Jesus’ death and resurrection. But he’s still spreading lies. He is still trying to get us to doubt Jesus. He can’t win the war, but he can try to take down as many people with him as possible.
And so Jesus sends us out with a job: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” Jesus wants as many people as possible to share the life, hope, and forgiveness He won for us at the cross. And to encourage us, He reminds us: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” He promises to be with us always. Who can be afraid with Jesus nearby?
We Pray: Thank You, Lord, for giving me a share in Your work. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* What dangers should you watch out for when you know the devil is still fighting?
* If Jesus has all authority, can anyone get away with evil forever?
* When you are anxious, how does it help to know Jesus is with you?
This Easter Devotion was written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Originally published in The Lutheran Hour on April 10, 2023
Used by permission from International Lutheran Laymen’s League, all rights