When our kids were old enough to look after themselves at home while Mom and Dad went out, we always had lots of instructions for them. Feed the dog, water the plants, vacuum the living room, load the dishwasher, and be in bed by 10 p.m. In our absence we wanted things to get done, and we needed our kids to know they had to get them done.

In some ways, it seems, Jesus had a similar plan when he was about to leave his disciples. He had spent years with them, training them and preparing them for this exact moment. He was about to return to the Father in heaven and leave them with the task of furthering his kingdom on the earth. So, before he left, Jesus gave them these tasks: “Make disciples of all nations.” “Baptize people into my family.” “Teach them everything I have commanded you.” And he promised, “I will always be with you.”

These were essential for the disciples, and they are essential for us today. We continue in this important work as Jesus’ followers even now. Jesus’ message to his disciples is his message to us.

We have our job description, and we have Jesus’ promise of his eternal presence with us. And these are things we can be sure of.