by Elder Mike Chon

As the church plant to San Jose is quickly approaching (only 5 to 6 months away), I realize that there is so much to do and so much to prepare for. As well, there are so many things that we just don’t know about and are unable to prepare for until the church plant actually occurs. One thing we know, no matter what happens whether in the life of the church or our personal lives we can trust that Jesus will always be there. What greater truth can bring comfort to our soul when the future may appear uncertain or when we face the difficulties of life.

The disciples were faced with a daunting challenge of carrying out the gospel to the ends of the earth. They must have felt great fear and anxiousness as they thought back of all the mistakes they made while Jesus was there, but now have to face this world alone. Jesus, the great Teacher, knew what was in the hearts of these men as the time approached for Him to leave. As always, Jesus prepared a time and place for Him to instruct the disciples in regards to their fears. Immediately following the Last Supper and before the crucifixion Christ gives the disciples instruction to where to meet after His resurrection in Matthew 26:30-32. Then a second mentioning of where Jesus will be came from the angel in the empty tomb in Matthew 28:5-7. Finally, the risen Christ commands them to go to Galilee. (Matthew 28:10). There are three instances when the disciples were instructed to meet Him in Galilee either directly or indirectly. There must be something very important that Jesus wants to tell the disciples before He would leave to the Father.

When the disciples finally arrived in Galilee (Matthew 28:16) they must have been anticipating something very special. And it was. Jesus was going to give final instruction to the disciples before He departed so that they would be prepared for their new ministry without Him. These words are found in what is commonly referred as the “Great Commission” (Matthew 28:18-20). Many of us know it as the “Mission” of our church. As important as it is to “make disciples of Christ”, the conclusion of the Great Commission is as important but many times overlooked. At the end of Matthew 28:20, Christ says “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Jesus promises to the disciples that even though physically He may be leaving to the Father, Jesus will be with them always. This truth is true for us as well. That no matter what happens, whether in our evangelism, our family life, our work situation, or even during a church plant, that Jesus will always be there. Let us be comforted by the presence of Christ especially as we anticipate the church plant. Whether you are staying in San Diego or going to San Jose, that Christ will be with both of us, and through both ministries Christ will be glorified.