One of the platforms that I not only follow, but subscribe to, is “The Compass” by Gene Maynard! I am a part of that community because it has been life giving for me! Thank you, Gene, for all your hard work on providing guidance for missionaries like myself needing respite. And thanks for the opportunity to write on your platform!
Below is an excerpt from the article. Click the button to read it all!
The Great Commission & the Secret Place
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” - Matthew 28:19-20
Jesus was clear: our co-mission (shared purpose) is to go, baptize, teach, and make disciples. It was His final charge—the thing He said with His last breath on earth. Like a dying man’s last words to his children, it’s the MOST IMPORTANT instruction He had to impart to us as He was departing to the Father’s side.
We are called to be an incarnational people, just like our Savior. To embody the good news, to live on mission in the places we live, work, learn, and play. But here’s the thing: Jesus didn’t just keep pushing and driving. He WITHDREW - often.
“After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone.” - Matthew 14:23
The one man who could have chosen to keep pushing, striving, and producing modeled solitude. He didn’t just rest for His own well-being. He retreated to receive power for the task. Intimacy fueled His mission.
We don’t rest to serve ourselves. We rest to be empowered, hear clearly, love deeply, and obey fully.
Solitude is such powerful and overlooked spiritual discipline. Thanks for this reminder!