Home-Base Mission Homily: Colton Bryson

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” - Matthew 28:16-20 

It is often said that the first step is often the hardest. With it comes a terror that is found in us when encountered with unknown things. That dirge of uncertainty when we as students and staff stand in Wesley's backyard looking out to a battleground of roots, tubers, and clay that we aim to make into a garden. Will it turn out well if I step into this work? This must have been a thought when Jesus told these disciples what they are to do.

To those who doubted, it is not hard to see why they doubt Jesus. He said that He will be risen from the grave, but dead men don’t come back from that oblivion. Yet here he is, standing in front of them as the women have said. I imagine that to them, seeing Jesus was like the first few moments that you learn that dinosaurs exist. A rush of wonder and awe stopped by a suspicion of logic. Possibly even a fear that this is too good for them.

To the others worshipping, this is no surprise for them. Jesus has always done what he has said he is going to do. This is par for the course. There is no anxiety because there is nothing to be anxious about. The only way they know how to be with Jesus is to do as he commands, these commands being the first inhales of life for them, with the greatest assurance that life will stay through the end of the age.

For us, let these verses remind us that it is through our Lord Jesus Christ that we are able to do much of anything, especially when we are afraid and can’t see more than a foot in front of us. Whether this is your first step in your walk or you have lost count, remember that Christ is with you and to sink deeper into His Waters. Amen.

Colton Bryson is a faithful member of the Wesley community and will soon become a ministry intern after he graduates from LA Tech with a degree in Communications. He participated in the Wesley’s first Home-Base Mission this summer and wrote this Homily to share with the team during that mission. Colton is a joy to work alongside and is always willing to help in any way he can!