As I was reading the assigned Scripture this a.m., a verse from John 21:22 jumped out at me. Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” Let me explain. Approximately 15 years ago, I was ready to go on another foreign mission trip. We had one week before departure. My father was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Torn between obeying my Heavenly Father and wanting to be with my earthly father, I didn’t know what to do. I prayed and asked God what to do. When I read the above verse, I had the answer. My family supported my decision. After I got back from the mission trip, Dad lived approximately 6 more weeks. Dad accepted Christ as Savior 2 weeks before He died! Praise Jesus!
Matthew 28:19-20 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”