Matthew 10

And as you go, preach, saying, “the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 10:7

This week I have been reading the book of Matthew for my personal devotional time. When I came to chapter 10 I was inspired to read the chapter over again for the following two mornings. And it has been truly a blessing. I remember reading this book many times in the past but I learned so much as I was going over the chapter a few number of times. At many times, we forget what our role is as Christians. We are not just church go-ers. We have a specific mission and a role and Jesus has taught us that in Matthew chapter 10.

The chapter has reaffirmed my role not just as a pastor, but as a Christian as well. It teaches me to 'preach, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand!” '(v. 7) and to ‘confess Jesus before men.’ (v. 32)

It also tells me that I will be 'persecuted and hated for Jesus’ name’s sake.' (v. 22) When dad was young, dad used to be persecuted by grandfather for being an Adventist. He would spank dad each week when he would skip school on the Sabbath. (In Korea, students go to school on Saturdays.) And when grandfather spanks dad, he would get drunk and cry and ask dad, “Of all the churches, why would you go to an Adventist church?”

Being a Christian does not guarantee an easy life. Rather, Jesus tells that it will be difficult. But God calls us to endure. And He promises us that 'when we endure, we will be saved and that Jesus will confess my name before the Father.' (v. 22,32) Therefore, Hyemi and I are willing to 'take the cross and follow Him.' (v. 38)