Dear members and friends of IBC,

Yesterday we were challenged by the message brought to us by Daniel Bartz, a lead pastor at CityChurch/Hamburg Projekt. Based on John 17:13-21 (in the context of Jesus’ high priestly prayer), Daniel got our attention right from the start by stating that there is something in the text that Jesus really wants us to have. It’s found in verse 13: “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.” Jesus wants us to have the “full measure of joy.” The difference between the “full measure of joy” and just “joy” is like the difference between having a deep well and having a cup of water. 

Daniel then pointed out something very important: in order for us to be able to experience the fullness of joy of which Jesus speaks, He gives us a mission. “But where,” you may wonder, “is mission in this passage?” Look at verse 18: “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” Believers are sent into the world by the Son, just as He was sent into the world by the Father (20:21). This “sending” clearly implies a mission. 

Jesus is saying, “I have a fullness of life because I’m a man with a mission; and I want you to have the same fullness of joy, so I’m going to make you a people with a mission.” These are the words of Jesus, so they are not optional. In fact, they are at the very heart of the Christian life.

The question is then, “How can I discover my particular mission?” As I pondered this question I came up with several answers. First of all, recognize that your mission has to do with bringing people into Christ’s fold (17:20). Second, learn to share the message of the Gospel. Make it a priority to know it backward and forward. Third, pray for opportunities to carry out your mission within your possibilities and potential. Finally, pray that the Holy Spirit will make you both creative and wise in your mission. This is especially needed in these times of pandemic. 

As we are obedient to our individual calling, and as we support one another in our mission, we can look forward to experiencing the fullness of joy that Jesus promised. I sure want this!

Joyfully on a mission,

Pastor Dan