So, send I you …

Bible Reading: John 20:19-23

When we read about the persecution of Christians in India and all around the world, it frightens us. But history teaches us that persecution has existed from the beginning; it is nothing new. And it will continue to be present till the Lord returns in glory!

Then, it is important that we understand our role in that context. The answer to this lies in John 17:18, which says, "As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world." After the resurrection, when the disciples were huddled behind closed doors, Jesus appeared to them and commissioned them, saying, "As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you” (KJV John 20:21).

"So send I you" is a powerful statement of Jesus' mission and His call to His followers. We have been sent the same way Jesus was sent by His heavenly Father! Jesus came into a hostile world. We know how Jesus was treated, and He has sent us, His disciples and followers, in the same way to continue His work. 

Jesus was sent to live among us. Jesus was sent to suffer for truth and righteousness. Jesus was sent to rescue men. Jesus was sent to reveal His Father. Jesus said, "He who has seen Me has seen the Father…"(John 14:9). 

Even as a twelve-year-old, Jesus knew He had to be about His Father's business. In the same way, His business has to be our business, which means our job, duty, and responsibility is to seek those who are lost and help them meet the Savior! Just as Christ's mission was to reveal the Father, it is our mission to reveal Christ to those around us. People are supposed to see Christ in us and then the Father. 

The Bible says, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Jesus did not send us into the world without any help. Jesus breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit," and empowered them to even forgive sins!

My friend, persecution cannot be an excuse for us not to defend the Gospel or present Christ. Remember, Jesus is with us in every situation to help us in our mission.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me not to be afraid of persecution. You have already said that we will have tribulation in the world, but You have overcome the world. Help me, Lord. Amen.