January 4 -- "Be With Him. Go For Him."

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Read Mark 3:1-19

Mark 3:14 tells us that Jesus appointed twelve men to be with him and to be sent out to preach. This verse highlights the inseparable nature of discipleship: "be with him" and "go for him." This verse encapsulates the dual call of every believer: to cultivate an intimate relationship with Christ and to actively participate in His mission.

First, Jesus called His disciples to be with Him before sending them out. This shows that our effectiveness in life and ministry stems from our closeness to Christ. Like the disciples, we are first and foremost invited to spend time in His presence, learning from Him and growing in our relationship with Him.

In John 15:4, Jesus emphasizes the necessity of “abiding” in Him: "Abide [stay continually connected] in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me." James 4:8 remind us to draw near to God: “Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you.” Drawing near to God brings us into His presence, where we experience peace, comfort, and joy. His nearness dispels fear and fills us with confidence rooted in His love.

Second, when we talk about "going for Him," it’s about stepping into the world as representatives of Jesus Christ, actively participating in His mission to share the Gospel and serve others. We are all “sent out” by Jesus in various capacities to share His message and His love with others This involves both our words and actions, making sure that everything we do reflects His love, grace, and truth.

Going for Him involves sharing the good news and serving others with compassion. It means living a life that reflects His values, such as love, joy, and kindness, and investing in relationships to build community and reach isolated individuals, guided by Jesus's teachings and strength.

Jesus didn't just invite people to learn from Him; He called them to live in close relationship with Him and carry His message to the world. Embrace your mission to be with Him and go for Him with the same enthusiasm as the original twelve.

May the Lord grant you a deeper intimacy with Himself, filling your heart with His love and wisdom. And, as you abide in Him, may you be empowered to go forth and proclaim His Good News with boldness and grace.