Sunday 31 May 2026

Psalm 8

Background
Our reading for today is Matthew’s short account of what Jesus said to his disciples after his resurrection. It leads us on from his ministry and guides us into ours. Known as 'the Great Commission', a term popularised by the 19th century missionary Hudson Taylor, this phrase has directed our call to spread the good news.

I think it is true that we can read this text in several senses. It is a great call to evangelism, but if that is all we see here, there is a danger that we miss our 'why'. Though there is a clear call to go and speak to people about Jesus, if we see only this focus then we miss the great truth that Jesus shared just prior to his ascension to heaven – that it is not who we go from that is important, but who we return to.

This is the call of all scripture and our redemption history which dates back to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3). The story of our salvation is of our return to God.

I want to suggest today that, as you take to heart the charge to make disciples, that you also hold remember that God’s great invitation through Jesus is about our unity and union with God. God opens and offers the whole of himself to us and awaits our response. Today we remind ourselves of this great truth.

To Ponder:

• What does it mean for you that your place in God’s holy kingdom is assured and for all time?
• What does it mean for you to be given authority to share this truth with all those God leads you to?
• Spend some time reflecting on the truth that God is with you for all time as Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Prayer
Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit I come to you today that I may rest in the truth that I am in you as you are in me. May I know this day a deeper sense of your presence in me and know of myself to be at one with you, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd David Newlove
David is an Agricultural Chaplain, the Mission Area Lead for Cumbria in the North West England District and Superintendent of the Cumbria Circuit.