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Intention

To awaken us from our complacency so we can vigorously run and win the race Jesus gave us: the Great Commission.

Scripture

“When the light shines, it exposes even the dark and shadowy things and turns them into pure reflections of light. This is why they sing, ‘Awake, you sleeper! Rise from your grave, the anointed One will shine on you.’

“So be careful how you live; be mindful of your steps. Don’t run around like idiots as the rest of the world does. Instead, walk as the wise! Make the most every living and breathing moment, because these are evil times. So, understand and be confident in God’s will, and don’t live thoughtlessly.”

– Ephesians 5:13–17

Reflection

Have you ever watched a race at the Olympics where the runners were being outcompeted by one athlete? The leader is streets ahead and striding towards inevitable victory.

But then he or she coasted, kicked back a notch, and breathed a premature sigh of relief. There might even be a stumble and fall. And then comes a loud roar from the crowd!

“Maybe they’re celebrating with me!”, thinks the leading athlete. No! The crowd is telling you the runner behind you has picked up the pace and is just about to overtake you, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.

As the wife, mother and grandmother of a very competitive, sports-oriented family (notice I didn’t say obsessed), I’ve seen the above scenario play out in every sport, whether golf, tennis, soccer or athletics.

Perhaps, like me, you see a deeply troubling complacency – a ‘coasting’ if you like – in the Church.

Have we ever thought, “The evangelists will do it! The young people can step up! I’m just kicking back. I pay my tithes, read a few chapters, and I’m a good person. God knows my heart. This culture is so explosive. I need to keep my mouth shut! I think I’ll sit on the fence!” (And the devil applauds.)

This is not a biblical worldview. Not even close.

When Jesus commands all his followers that making disciples among all the nations is their highest calling and priority (Matthew 28:18–20), His words aren’t obscure or confusing. They are crystal clear and simple. That’s why it’s called “The Great Commission” – not “The Great Suggestion”.

I wonder how many followers of Jesus truly feel a sense of urgency to share the gospel and pray for our friends, family, strangers. Have we run for a while, but then coasted along, finding ourselves falling further and further behind in the race? Perhaps we have checked out of the race altogether, putting our feet up as we sit on a park bench, watching the runners go past from the sideline?

Have we been like ancient mariners, who heard the ‘Siren’s song’ and fell into an intoxicated slumber that ended in shipwreck?

Millions of believers across the world are taking their place in GO Month. This is a prime opportunity to pull on our running shoes, tighten our laces, and race the great race set out for us in the Great Commission. When we do so, let us hear the almighty roar of the crowd of heaven cheering us on.

Revive us, Lord! We’re at the pointy end. Let’s finish well!

Video

Prayer

Father, help me to examine where I am. If I’m in slumber mode, help me realise I’m in disobedience to Your Word. Show me how to “Make the most of every living and breathing moment, because these days are evil times” (Ephesians 5:16). In Jesus Christ’s name, amen.

Author Bio

Leonie and her husband Ivan are songwriters, worship leaders, parents and grandparents. They have operated in lay ministry in cross-denominational settings for many years. Having ministered in cross denominational settings for many years, they now Pastor Revelation Christian Church on the Central Coast of NSW.

Leonie and Ivan take a great interest in history, current events and politics. They are very active in the prayer movement.

Prayer Points for GO Month to Pentecost 2025

1. Five friends to trust in Christ and to share the gospel with those five in May. Matthew 28:19–20

2. Repentance, revival and reformation in Australia and for millions to believe in Jesus Christ. Luke 24:47

3. A Church that grows in extravagant love for God and people. 2 Corinthians 5:14–15

We invite you to support this prayer campaign to multiply prayer in Australia for revival and see millions come to faith in Christ. Every donation to the Canberra Declaration helps us promote prayer and make a stand for family, faith, freedom, life, and the good news of God’s love through Jesus Christ, His Son.

Join us for our nightly Zoom prayer call:

DATES: Every night from Sunday, 4 April to Sunday, 8 June

TIME: 8 PM (AEST), 7:30 PM (SA & NT), 6 PM (WA)

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