In the previous reflection, I noted that mission demands focus. Today I want to push that further. Mission is always about Jesus.
When the disciples are told in verse 7 that “the kingdom of heaven is near”, they are talking about Jesus. Not merely his physical presence, but that he has come “into this world, in time and space”.
The world is forever changed because of has come to earth.
Jesus’ life moves God’s ultimate aim, His kingdom aim, closer. Jesus is the focal point.
Further in verse 32 Jesus notes that those who confess him before men, he will confess before his Father. “Acknowledgement before his Father” is literally being in the kingdom—this acknowledgement only happens if we proclaim Jesus. Therefore Mission demands focus on Jesus.
Pressing on still, in verse 39 we read “He who seeks his life will lose it; and he who loses his life for my sake will find it.” If I am seeking my life, my focus is therefore on me. “Losing my life for Jesus’ sake” is the result of focusing on Jesus.
The point is doing Mission, the way Jesus is teaching his disciples, must include the call that the Kingdom of heaven is near—repent and return the Lord.
That message will bring persecution. He tells them, he tells us plainly. If they persecuted him, they will persecute the twelve. They will persecute us. History bears this out.
Similarly, the message will result in a sharp dividing line. Yes, Jesus says, “Blessed are the peacemakers”, but he also says he did not come to bring peace. Peace is not the aim; it is the result of lives surrendered to Christ.
Our aim, our mission, must be to bring people to the saving knowledge of Jesus, even if that means pain and persecution.
Where today in your life are you facing that, and where might you be shying away to avoid the pain?