Go and Make Disciples: A Testimony of Baptism, Calling, and Legacy
- Marleen Gracom
- Jun 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 24

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”— Matthew 28:19–20 (NLT)
There are moments in life when God’s Word doesn’t just speak—it grabs hold of you and never lets go. For me, Matthew 28:19–20 was that moment.
I had grown up hearing about God, knowing about Jesus, and attending church. But it wasn’t until this passage came alive in my spirit that I truly understood what it meant to belong to Him. These weren’t just parting words from Jesus—they were a commissioning, a call to action, and a reminder of divine companionship.
When I read, “Go and make disciples… baptizing them…”, something shifted in me. It wasn’t just a general instruction to the church—it was a personal invitation. Baptism wasn’t just a tradition; it was a declaration. It meant I was no longer living for the world, but that I had died to it. It meant that I had been raised to walk in newness of life—fully alive in Christ.
That realization wrecked me—in the best way.
I knew I needed to take that step. To publicly proclaim, “I am His.” To be washed by the water, and marked by the Spirit. It was my surrender, and it became my strength.
But that’s only the beginning.
What stirred my soul even more was the rest of the passage: “Teach these new disciples… and be sure of this: I am with you always.” As I grew in my walk with Christ, God placed a powerful desire in my heart—to pour into the next generation. To be a mentor, a spiritual sister, a voice of truth and encouragement to children and young believers who are just beginning their journey with Jesus.
Working with children is not just a passion of mine—it’s part of my calling. I want them to know early on that God is real, His Word is alive, and His love is unshakable. I want them to see through me what it looks like to live a life set apart. To walk boldly, joyfully, and obediently in His footsteps.
This verse is more than my testimony. It’s my daily mission.
I am here to go.
I am here to make disciples.
I am here to teach.
And I am here to remind everyone I meet—He is with you always.
Even to the end of the age.
🛍 Inspired by this message?
The “Faithful Guidance” T-shirt was created as a wearable reminder of the call to go and make disciples and the promise that He is with you always (Matthew 28:19–20). Whether you're mentoring, teaching, or simply walking in faith, let this shirt be your quiet declaration of purpose.




