Now
the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had
directed them. And when they saw him 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 28:16-20
Advent is not only a time to reflect upon Christ’s first
coming, but it is also appropriate to consider his second coming for which we
wait.
It is surprising to many that there is actually not much in
scripture regarding “heaven” or the “age to come.” Much of what is said is in
regards to the “here and now.” The Great Commission in Matthew 28 is not a
great example of language about Christ’s second coming. For this we could have
used such a text as 1 Thessalonians 4. Still, Jesus uses this language of “the
end of the age.”
Jesus’ followers had seen him do many things during his
ministry. He had performed miracles, told many stories, and spoken out against
the Jewish authorities. Here in Matthew 28, undoubtedly what is on his
disciples’ minds is his death just days before and, now, his resurrection! How
could this be? What had all of this meant? What were they to think? What were
they to do now?
The time had now come for his departure; though in a very
real way, he would always be present among them. His earthly ministry was
finished; yet, it would be taken up and continue through his disciples as they
lived out this commission. And many of his disciples would face a similar “end”
as they took up this call and participated in the life of Christ. Still, even
in death Christ was with them.
This has been encouragement for the people of God for
centuries as so many faithful have lived, reflecting the cross of Christ and
greatly anticipating and waiting for the coming of Christ. The mantle is now
ours to take up.
And behold, I am with
you always, to the end of the age.
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