Gospel | Matthew 28:16-20 (with Tom Gastil)

Opening Song:

O Lord, open our lips and our mouths will declare Your praise.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end,
Amen.

The Scripture for today is Matthew 28:16-20.

Let’s prepare our hearts to hear from God’s word as we listen to The Commission by Carter Frodge, David Blake Neesmith, Logan Cain, Madison Cain Johnson, and Taylor Cain Matz. The words of the Great Commission receive a modern translation. Layered harmonies sung by the Cain siblings bring richness and depth to this charge from Jesus. The acoustic band reaches a soaring climax with cello, keyboard, guitar picking, and a backing choir.
Lyrics:

See my hands look at my feet
It’s okay if it’s hard to believe
I have faith you will do greater things
It’s my time to go but before I leave

Go tell the world about me
I was dead but now I live
I’ve gotta go now for a little while
But goodbye is not the (end)

Don’t forget the things that I taught you
I conquered death and I hold the keys
Where I go you will go too someday
But there’s much to do here before you leave

End of the journey the end of the road
My spirit is with you wherever you go
You have a purpose and I have a plan
I’ll make you this promise
I’ll come back again but until then

Go tell the world about me
For I was dead but now I live
Oh I’ve gotta go now for a little while aye
But goodbye is not the end

(Go tell the world) Go tell them about me
(Go tell the world) I’ve gotta go
Go tell the world) For a little while
But goodbye is not the end
Passage:

16 The eleven disciples traveled to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped, but some doubted. 18 Jesus came near and said to them, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. 19 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, 20 teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
(Matthew 28:16-20 CSB)

Musical Reflection:
Children of the Heavenly Father (TRYGGARE KAN INGEN VARA), trad. Swedish folk song

Reflection Notes:
Lina Sandell-Berg purportedly wrote the lyrics for this hymn after witnessing her father’s untimely death in a boating accident. Her text focuses on our heavenly Father, who will never leave us or forsake us, in life or in death. The tune originates from a 19th-century Swedish folk song, its sweet fluidity well-suited for the words of comfort.

Prayer:
O Lord, our heavenly Father, keep your household the Church continually in your true religion, that we who trust in the hope of your heavenly grace may always be defended by your mighty power; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.