DISCIPLESHIP

In Matthew 28:18-20 (NKJV), “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen.”

This command from Jesus remains relevant today. We are called to go out and make disciples, which means stepping outside of the four walls of the church and into the harvest field. I think about Sister Roslynn Floyd, who played a significant role in my life. She was a teacher at my elementary school and started by taking my friend to church. Eventually, I began going with her as well. Sister Roslynn would pick me up and other kids from the neighborhood and take us to church. We might not have been the best-behaved kids; many would say we were quite rough around the edges, but it was okay because the Lord had a plan for our lives.

Sister Roslynn and others involved in the children’s and youth ministry took the time to work with us. Many of us had never been to church before, but the people at Southern Avenue, now known as Eagles Wings Judah Worship Center in Tifton, loved us and invested in us. When we look in the Word of God, we see that many people came from all walks of life, yet when they encountered Jesus, their lives were forever changed. This was true for me. Although I had gone to church before, I was never truly introduced to Jesus until I met Sister Roslynn. We must always remember that people will come from diverse backgrounds and may not have everything figured out. It’s essential to be willing to reach them where they are and help them grow into the individuals the Lord created them to be.

Reflecting on my life, I realize I have been blessed to have so many wonderful people pour into me, including my pastor, Pastor Reather Campbell. I am the woman I am today because of their guidance and support. It all began with Sister Roslynn picking me up on that little blue church bus. It only takes one person who loves the Lord and shows genuine care. It’s easy to say, “I love you,” but as the old saying goes, love is demonstrated through actions.

Lacretia Stanley, a native of Tifton, Georgia, is a member and licensed minister at Eagles Wings Judah Worship Center with pastor Reather G. Campbell. She serves as the youth leader, works with the dance team, and oversees the choir. Lacretia loves the Lord and is passionate about His people, especially in her work with the youth ministry.