Read Matthew 28:18–20

Every so often it’s helpful to stop the annual merry-go-round, get off, look objectively, and think clearly. It’s not only helpful, it’s essential for the Christian. In this circus-like American lifestyle of ours, we tend to be deafened by the blare of our own band and blinded by the glare of our own lights shining—always shining—on the ring of our own choice.

That needs to change. We need to hear the voice of the Ringmaster as He raises His hand to stop the band:

“We interrupt this program to bring all of you a reminder that the world in which you live is not the whole world...but only a very small part of the world for which I died.”

Thankfully, Christ has given us our marching orders—and it requires that we look around and see the wider world:

I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (Matthew 28:18–20)

What could you do this week to reach farther, see wider, feel deeper on behalf of Christ? What could help you kindle a greater understanding and perspective, broader vision, and deeper compassion for this vast hurting world of ours? Are you mentoring someone these days? Are you praying for a hurting friend or co-worker who doesn’t know the Lord? Are you engaged in the action? You’ve analyzed the problems long enough.

It’s time to step up and be part of the answer. Nike’s got it right: Just Do It.

Devotional content taken from Good Morning, Lord...Can We Talk? by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2018. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries. All rights reserved.

The full devotional can be purchased at https://www.tyndale.com/p/good-morning-lord-can-we-talk/9781414380681.