Most of us that are 50 years and older remember carrying an Atlas map with us in the car to get around. Before Google maps, you had to find out where you were on the map, discover where you were going then decide which road got you to your destination the best. Of course now, a computer figures all that out for you.
So in Acts 1 when Jesus commissions his disciples, he reminds them they will be his witnesses in “Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” So too we have been commissioned to “go” to the ends of the earth, starting right where we are first. In order to be witnesses to what Jesus has done for us in our lives, there are a few things we can remember.
First, be present right where you are. Currently, our phones are such a huge distraction. We are constantly looking at them, even when we are with other people. We must discipline ourselves to focus on the people God puts in our path and interact with them for the cause of Christ. Jesus has passed the torch to us to be his witnesses and it’s hard to do that if you’re looking down.
When I was working on my MDiv, a great mentor of mine reminded me I’ll always have a book to read, a paper to write, and a test for which to study. My two boys who were very young at the time would not always be little to don’t miss the window of opportunity with them. So on my way home from my 5-year graduate level schooling, I found a landmark. When I arrived at the landmark, I’d stop thinking about school and start getting ready to interact with my boys and my wife. Being present with them has paid off. Be present with the people God has placed in your life.
Secondly, be prayerful. In Acts 1:14, we are reminded the followers of Jesus were praying constantly. We should be in prayer everyday that God would open our eyes to the appointments He sends us daily to be a witness. Prayer is the conversation you have with God that the Holy Spirit carries into the throne room of God. Be disciplined enough to pray when you driving, walking, working, and laying down. Ask God to reveal where He is working in the world and how you can join Him in what He’s already doing.
Finally, be perceptive. The seemingly smallest interactions are moments to be a witness and share the love God has extended to you. When you drop your kiddo off at school or use the crosswalk with your child. Teachers and volunteers can be reminded about God’s love through you. It could be the dentist or doctor you’ll see today needs some compassion extended. Maybe your boss or coworker needs to be reminded through you they are loved by God.
So be open and ready in every opportunity God will give you. Whether you are headed to worship on a Sunday morning or on vacation, God wants you on mission. If you are at the grocery store or the gas pump, God wants you on mission. When you are at the teacher conference or the staff meeting, God expects you to represent him well.
Dr. Suess says, “Oh the places you will go.” And this year, you will go lots of places. You are commissioned to be a witness so look like Jesus every chance you get. May the Holy Spirit empower you to overcome any obstacles so that you can realize the Kingdom of God in your life. Blessings on the journey.