The people who are always desperately active are a nuisance; it is through the saints who are one with him that God is doing things all the time. The broken and the jaded and the twisted are being ministered to by God through the saints who are not overcome by their own panic, who because of their oneness with him are absolutely at rest, consequently he can work through them.
~Oswald Chambers (1874-1917)
There is absolutely nothing left to do beloved.
It is done. He did it.
Rest.
But, we just want to show Him how much we love Him! The world is crashing around us. 185,000 people went to hell today! There is so much to do.
Yeah, and in those thoughts and words lie the problem dear friends.
What?
Yeah, we are so busy in the church today. We are trying like crazy to do all sorts of things to save people. And all along the way Jesus says: Come away, beloved. Rest in me. Get to know me.
Why?
Because the task before us (the Great Commission) is impossible. Absolutely impossible. It is a flipping logistical, political, cultural, military, and linguistic nightmare. AND the only One that can do the impossible is the One who both made up the word and laughs at it.
We gotta change our minds here. We gotta give up on our own abilities to get this done. We gotta believe one of the most condescending truths of the Gospel: The only Person that can live out the Great Commission is Jesus Himself. And He has chosen to live out that commission THROUGH the union of Himself and true believers in Him.
He does not need us. He wants us to simply know Him. And in all of us knowing Him fully – in fully resting in Him – then (and only then) can the great work of the Great Commission roll out across the planet as intended.
John Wesley rightly said “Give me one hundred men who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not whether they be clergyman or laymen, they alone will shake the gates of Hell and set up the kingdom of Heaven upon the earth.” Would that we might see the epic truth in his words tonight.
Come away friend. Rest in Christ. And let Him work the impossible work of His call through your life. This writer promises you will be absolutely amazed at what He gets done! Doubt it no longer. Look to the saints across the church age who have actually had an impact. They were and are men and woman who have despaired of any hope EXCEPT the Hope they have in Christ alone.
