The Great Commission

"Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:16-20

It's not unusual to have a baptism on a mission trip--it would be surprising not to have at least one. The Bible worker in Peñitas had a person who had been studying the Bible with him and was ready for baptism. It was scheduled for a Sabbath when Team Northern Lights was there, but had to be postponed because the local pastor was called away that day.

The team rejoiced that a person was ready to make a public commitment of their faith, but disappointed that they didn't get to witness it. It is always thrilling to watch a baptism. But God was at work in another very surprising way!

On our last Sabbath in Peñitas we had a foot-washing and communion service with our new friends. As I've mentioned before, it is the custom in their culture for only baptized members in good standing to be able to participate in this part of the service. I was informed that one of our own team members was not baptized. I was surprised, but that's due my own assumptions that an adult would already have made this event part of their Christian walk. In actuality, the only two requirements we had put forth to be on the team were a desire to be obedient to the Lord's call to do His work and to be respectful and supportive of our beliefs whether you held the same beliefs or not.

Later, following communion, we casually discussed having this person baptized while in Mexico. For a number of very practical reasons we decided against it, but I suggested the team member follow up on it after returning home if that was the desire of their heart.

I was thrilled today to receive confirmation that our team member has met with the Pastor and is ready for baptism! I cannot begin to describe how much this means to our team! It also reinforces my belief and desire that God will not only work through us while on a mission trip, but He will continue to do so after we return.

His word is the foundation for my belief: Philippians 1:3-6 "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

This team member has touched my heart already. I can't wait to witness this special occasion next Sabbath.

Come. Come rejoice with Team Northern Lights and all the angels in heaven!

Lynda