Today’s Reading: Acts 2:42-3:11; Psalm 112

They all met together and were constantly united in prayer… – Acts 1:14

Consider with me what the believers were doing before they were filled with the Spirit. They had a big decision to make, and so they gathered together and prayed for direction from God. It was at this moment, when they were united in fellowship and joined together in corporate prayer, that everyone was filled with the Holy Spirit (2:4). And once they were filled with the Spirit, they again found that place of unity.

LETTING GO OF EVERYTHING THIS WORLD HAS TO OFFER

All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to the fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. All the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity – all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. – Acts 2:42-47

The believers found unity not only in time spent together and in prayer, but also in their generosity toward others. The result of this unity was that the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. Others saw the joy and satisfaction they had found, and they wanted to be a part of this movement of God!

Do we experience that kind of unity today? Does our praise attract others to our fellowship? We give of our time to the church and we circle up to join hands in prayer, but why aren’t we experiencing an Acts chapter two response? Perhaps it is because we operate with this concern of how generous we can be without leaving ourselves in need. We find a sense of security in our possessions and income, and it is hard to let go of that stability. We find ourselves serving God from a mindset of scarcity.

Acts 3 tells us that Peter and John were approached for money by a lame man who was being carried to the Temple Gate to beg. As the man eagerly looked up at them, Peter responded that he did not have any silver or gold to give to him. Of course he didn’t have any money, he had already sold all his possessions and given everything he had to the group of believers. So he was left with nothing to give, right? Wrong. When Peter and John let go of everything this world has to offer, they were able to share everything that God has to offer.

SHARING WITH OTHERS EVERYTHING GOD HAS TO OFFER

“I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!”

Then Peter took the lame man by the right hand and helped him up. And as he did, the man’s feet and ankles were instantly healed and strengthened. He jumped up, stood on his feet, and began to walk! Then, walking, leaping, and praising God, he went into the Temple ahead of them.

All the people saw him walking and heard him praising God. When they realized he was the lame beggar they had seen so often at the Beautiful Gate, they were absolutely astounded! They all rushed out in amazement to Solomon’s Colonnade, where the man was holding tightly to Peter and John. – Acts 3:6-11

When we let go of everything in this world and stop trying to protect ourselves, God steps in and we begin to see HIM at work. Self-preservation will get us just that — self-preservation. But letting go of this world and hanging tight to God, praying for wisdom and direction and then following His lead — THIS will give us a life where we are daily astounded by God’s power.

DAILY GIVING GOD ALL I HAVE

That’s the kind of life I want — a life where I am daily astounded by God’s power, a life where I daily give God all that I have. Lord, open my eyes so that I can see the evidence of your work all around me. Lord, do your work through me so that you will be glorified today. Lord, help me to trust in you for protection and provision, instead of trusting in any earthly wealth I can obtain. This morning, I choose to let go of my ideas of what I need and embrace all that you have for me. Empty me of all that is ME and fill me with your Spirit. Amen.

In April of 2021, God shifted our focus and asked us to move to Kansas City. I found myself praying for understanding as I said my goodbyes and started packing our belongings. The one word I received from the Lord during that season of submission was to “stay light on my feet”. Today we live in a two-bedroom apartment one-third of the size of our previous home, and we share a closet half the size we had before. We have a one stall garage instead of two, and we share a desk. We have not set down roots in Kansas but, let me tell you, we are rooted in relationships and ministry.

None of this has earned us salvation. We praise God for the beauty of this season and we willingly allow Him to lead our every step, but our salvation comes from our repentance. It is not earned; it is a gift from God made possible through the blood of Jesus. Our decision to be generous with God is in response to His generosity towards us, and we give Him praise for every day He allows us to serve Him here on earth.

Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, and to your children, and even to the Gentiles – all who have been called by the Lord our God.” – Acts 2:38-39

Today’s Reading: Acts 2:37-41; Psalm 19

Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter STEPPED FORWARD and preached what might have been his first sermon. Scripture says: Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”

Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, and to your children, and even to the Gentiles – all who have been called by the Lord your God.” – Acts 2:37-39

I WANT TO BE BOLD LIKE PETER!

We have all been called by God to salvation with the promise that we will receive the Holy Spirit. I want to have a Peter-kind-of-life! I want to be bold in my actions, stepping forward and speaking God’s truth. I want to be filled with the Holy Spirit so that hearts can be pierced by what He has for them to hear. But when was the last time I was Peter-bold?

Lord, help me to grow in you. Forgive me for my immaturity and my sinful attitudes. Forgive me for my delayed obedience, fear and complacency. Lord, empty me of all that is sinful and fill me with your Spirit. I know that you have called me. Lord, I wholeheartedly say “yes” to your call.

Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!” Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day – about 3000 in all. – Acts 2:40-41

Now that’s what I call being a fisher of men! Peter’s “catch” that day was great because he stepped forward, got loud and spoke boldly. How hard do we try? Do we simply live a good life and hope someone will notice and choose to follow God, or do we follow Peter’s approach? Again I ask — When was the last time I was “Peter-bold”?

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE BOLD LIKE PETER?

If I want results like Peter saw that day, not for my glory but for the sake of those coming to Christ for forgiveness, I must consider the possibility that there will be times when God is calling me to step forward without hesitation, and at the same time be patient for results. It may take a long time and many discussions before a heart is moved. I may need to use persistence and passion in my approach.

PERSISTENCE, PATIENCE and PASSION – those are some powerful ingredients in my life. I need the Holy Spirit in order to have any of these. But there is one more ingredient I need – PURITY. I need the work of the Holy Spirit to purify my heart if I am going to be used by God.

If only you would prepare your heart and lift up your hands to him in prayer! Get rid of your sins and leave all iniquity behind you. Then your face will brighten in innocence. You’ll be strong and free of fear. You will forget your misery. It will all be gone like water under a bridge.” – Job 11:13-16

Joshua told the people, “Purify yourselves for tomorrow the Lord will do great wonders among you.” – Joshua 3:5

If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9

If you keep yourself pure you will be a utensil that God can use for his purpose. Your life will be clean and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. – 2 Timothy 2:21

So, if I want the Master to use me for every good work, I must prepare my heart and pray to Him; but, I cannot make myself clean. 1 John 1:9 says that if I confess that I have sinned, God is faithful and will forgive me, and He will purify me from my unrighteousness. So the key ingredient is not MY purity but HIS holiness. I love that!

PERSISTENCE – PATIENCE – PASSION – PRAYER – PURITY. These are what I need to have to prepare myself for all that He wants to do in and through me today. And this is what I need to do if I want to be bold for God — prepare myself for the moment when God is calling me to step forward and speak boldly.

How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart?
Cleanse me from these hidden faults.
Keep your servant from deliberate sins!
Don’t let them control me.
Then I will be free of guilt
and innocent of great sin.
May the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. – Psalm 19:12-14

Today’s Reading: Acts 2:14-36; Psalm 110

PETER STEPPED FORWARD.

After the believers were filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter stepped forward (Acts 2:14). Peter, the one who left his nets and followed Jesus (Matthew 4:20), the one who walked on the water toward Jesus but lost courage and began to sink (14:29), and also the one who denied him three times and then walked away — this same Peter was the first to step forward. He was no longer sinking in his faith, pulling out a sword to fight, or opening his mouth to say something foolish. Peter, when filled with the Spirit, was STEPPING FORWARD.

“People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. But God knew what would happen, and his prearranged plan was carried out when Jesus was betrayed. With the help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to a cross and killed him. But God released him from the horrors of death and raised him back to life, for death could not keep him in its grip.” – Acts 2:22-24

GOD KNEW WHAT WAS AHEAD.

There are no surprises for God; He knows all and is not bound by time as we are. For us, tomorrow is a mystery, but there are no unknowns — no mysteries for God. God knew the people would reject Jesus as God’s son and the promised Messiah. He knew they would cry out for His death and demand His crucifixion. But He already had a plan in place – a plan to resurrect Jesus from the dead. Peter pointed out that God revealed this plan to David long before Jesus was born.

“King David said this about him:
‘I see that the Lord is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
No wonder my heart is glad, and my tongue shouts his praises!
My body rests in hope.
For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your Holy One to rot in the grave.
You have shown me the way of life, and you will fill me with joy in your presence.’

“Dear brothers, think about this! You can be sure that the patriarch David wasn’t referring to himself, for he died and was buried, and his tomb is still here among us.But he was a prophet, and he knew God had promised with an oath that one of David’s own descendants would sit on his throne. David was looking into the future and speaking of the Messiah’s resurrection. He was saying that God would not leave him among the dead or allow his body to rot in the grave.

“God raised Jesus from the dead, and we are all witnesses of this. Now he is exalted to the place of highest honor in heaven, at God’s right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today…So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah!” – Acts 2:25-36

STEP FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE THAT GOD KNOWS WHAT IS AHEAD.

My prayer for all of us this morning is that we can STEP FORWARD into our day with confidence that God knows what is ahead for us. If He can conquer death, He can reign over any situation or challenge that comes our way. I pray that we, like King David, can see that the Lord is always with us. We will not be shaken for He is right beside us. May our hearts be glad, our tongues shout His praise, and our bodies rest in hope.

Precious Father, you have shown us the way of life – fill us today with joy in Your presence. May your Spirit BE LOUD in our life as we STEP FORWARD in faith. Amen.

The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit in the place of honor at my right hand
until I humble your enemies,
making them a footstool under your feet.”
The Lord stands at your right hand to protect you.
He will strike down many kings when his anger erupts.
He will punish the nations
and fill their lands with corpses;
he will shatter heads over the whole earth.
But he himself will be refreshed from brooks along the way.
He will be victorious. – Psalm 110:1,5-7

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:14-2:13; Psalm 125

They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. – Acts 1:14

As the followers of Jesus anticipated what was coming, they gathered together and united themselves in prayer. 120 believers came together and spent time seeking God.

Peter recognized that there was someone missing from this body of believers. Judas had been one of them. They had spent three years doing life with their brother and they were feeling his absence, still stunned from his betrayal. But they made the choice not to wallow in self-pity or hold on to their anger. They chose to give it to God and move on.

Let his years be few; let someone else take his position. – Psalm 109:8

Peter stepped forward and suggested they fill this empty spot with someone who had been with them the whole time, from Jesus’ baptism until now. Two men were nominated and Matthias was chosen by the casting of lots to become an apostle with the other eleven (Acts 1:23-26).

Now that this business was taken care of, there was only one more thing to do – wait for the gift Jesus had promised would come.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” – Acts 1:8a

Jesus promised the gift of the Holy Spirit and described the result as the receiving of power. The book of Acts describes the Spirit’s entrance as a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm and like flames or tongues of fire. The sound was so loud that it was heard across Jerusalem and everyone came running to see what was going on.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE SPIRIT’S PRESENCE IN YOUR LIFE?

On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.

At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers.

They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! Here we are—Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!” They stood there amazed and perplexed. “What can this mean?” they asked each other.

But others in the crowd ridiculed them, saying, “They’re just drunk, that’s all!” – Acts 2:1-13

LET’S GET LOUD!!!

The gift of the Holy Spirit is available for us today and could make a powerful difference in our lives and in the lives of those around us. Imagine the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives being so “loud” that people around us take notice. Imagine how God could use us if the Holy Spirit put the words in our mouths, so that those to whom we are witnessing or ministering could understand the message – not our message, but His. What if His presence in our lives hit a whole NEW VOLUME?

Today would be a great day to stop and consider the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives and to ask God for a fresh infilling of His Spirit. To sit in our “upper room” and simply breathe in His presence and ask Him to empty us of all that is who we are and fill us with all that is Him.

Heavenly Father, fill us with your Spirit today. Give us a spirit of wisdom to direct our words and our actions. Give us a spirit of compassion to lead our hearts in the direction you pull. Empty us of our own selfish desires and give us a heart that beats for only you. May we be witnesses of your power in our lives today. Amen.

Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion;
they will not be defeated but will endure forever.
Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem,
so the Lord surrounds his people, both now and forever.
The wicked will not rule the land of the godly,
for then the godly might be tempted to do wrong.
O Lord, do good to those who are good,
whose hearts are in tune with you.
But banish those who turn to crooked ways, O Lord.
Take them away with those who do evil. – Psalm 125:1-5a

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:1-13; Psalm 57

ANOTHER CHAPTER IS COMING TO AN END

Why does it seem that life goes by so fast? There are many things I miss about my girls being little but, at the same time, I am really enjoying life with three young adult daughters. Today I can look back and be thankful for those memories, while also looking forward in anticipation of all God has for them. There is this inner conflict of wanting to keep them here by my side for the rest of their lives while also delighting in the beauty of watching them spread their wings and fly.

In the first chapter of Acts, we see the disciples at a similar point in their lives. A chapter is coming to an end and a new chapter is beginning. They have just spent 40 days with the resurrected Christ, listening and learning from Him. During that short time, they gained some understanding of what His time on earth was about, why He had to die, and what was to come. In today’s passage, Jesus is leaving them, and they are caught between “straining to see him” and anticipating the gift He said He would send.

A NEW CHAPTER IS BEGINNING

In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit. During the forty days after his crucifixion, he appeared to the apostles from time to time, and he proved to them in many ways that he was actually alive. And he talked to them about the Kingdom of God.” – Acts 1:1-3

All that Jesus taught his disciples before his crucifixion was only the precursor to all he continued to teach them. Jesus BEGAN a work in them and he saw it to completion. He not only spent these 40 days with them after his resurrection from the dead, he continued to impact them through the Holy Spirit. Before leaving them, he gave them instructions and spoke of the powerful things he would continue to do through them.

Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit…You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” – Acts 1:4-11

STRAINING TO SEE HIM AHEAD

I pray each of us is able to take some time today to look back and look forward. Let’s look back at all God has taught us — all the wonderful times mixed with all of the hard times. He has been faithful and He has been present. Although the evidence of His presence can be seen at a glance, when we take the time to “strain to see him” we recognize His hands and feet in even more ways than we initially remembered.

“John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” – Acts 1:5

After looking back, let’s intentionally look forward in anticipation of what the future holds for us. God has promises for each one of us. In the same way that He spoke to His disciples, Jesus is speaking to us – this is what is behind you and this is what is coming. Here are the wonderful things I have done for you, but in a few days…

My heart is confident in you, O God;
my heart is confident.
No wonder I can sing your praises!
Wake up, my heart!
Wake up, O lyre and harp!
I will wake the dawn with my song.
I will thank you, Lord, among all the people.
I will sing your praises among the nations.
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens.
Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens.
May your glory shine over all the earth. – Psalm 57:7-11

Precious Father, we thank you for your Presence in our lives. You have been faithful and You have been generous. You have blessed us beyond our expectations and we praise You! Lord, today we sit at your feet and intentionally seek You as we look ahead to the next chapter of our lives. Thank you for all you have done so far and thank You for all You plan to do for us in the future. We love you. Amen.

Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile. When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. – Acts 1:12-13

Today’s Reading: Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-18

MAKING PLANS, CREATING LISTS AND SETTING GOALS

I am one of those people who likes to set goals, whether it is for today or this week or this month or this year. I am also a list person. I write out a list of all I need to do or want to accomplish. Because I am wired this way (as I am guessing many of you are), I already have this summer pretty much planned out, but I’m still working on my list of things I would like to accomplish.

But beyond my own heart’s desire to accomplish or experience this or that, this morning I find myself asking God what He would like to do with the next chapter of my life. I ask God this kind of question quite often, especially at the beginning of a new year or a new season, but sometimes even at the beginning of a new week or a new day. I give God permission to direct my ways and choose my paths. This surrender is not always easy — whatever, wherever, whenever. As I sit in this place of commitment again, I must admit I sense a familiar hesitation.

Let me reveal a little something about myself – I have a love-hate relationship with roller coasters. I love the thrill of the ride…when it’s over. As I move closer to the front of the line, I get a little more nervous. As I listen to the current riders screaming and the loud sound of the roller coaster rushing by, my heart starts to beat just a little faster (actually a lot faster). I know I am going to be safe and I know I am going to get off the roller coaster with a smile on my face, but the anticipation is nerve-wracking. I sit down, buckle up, and tighten my grip on the bars.

This is especially true when I ride a new roller coaster for the first time. I am unsure of what to expect. The ride is about to begin, zero to 70 mph in 3 seconds. The commitment has been made and seat belts are fastened, but the upcoming ride is unknown and I find myself a little scared. The next two minutes of my life are now completely out of my control. Have you ever felt this way?

DO YOU TRUST ME? CAN I HAVE YOUR PLANS?

My natural tendency is to want to be in charge; I like being in control. But my natural pattern is to really mess things up when I try to do things of my own strength or follow my own plan. This morning, God is asking me once more, “Do you trust me? Can I have your plans?” Yes, of course I trust you, Lord. Please calm my fears and help me to loosen my grip as I place my family and my list in your hands. I desire to fully commit everything to you, but the upcoming ride is still unknown and I find myself asking you to help me trust you.

Imagine how nervous the disciples were when they went to the upper room in anticipation of what was next. They had just watched Jesus ascend into Heaven. They had made the commitment to follow Him but the road ahead was unknown, the anticipation great. They did not need to ask God the question, “What would you like for me to do this year?” or “What goals would you like for me to set?” Jesus had already given them directions in His last few days with them. Now it was time to do what Jesus was asking them to do, just as it is time for us to do what God has already made clear to us.

DO WHAT GOD TOLD YOU TO DO.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8

Goal #1 – To be a witness of Christ Jesus wherever He places me today — a witness in my conversation, in my actions, in my attitudes.

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20

Goal #2 – To go and make disciples. To reach out and share the gospel with those who need Jesus, discipling them as they learn what it means to be a follower of Christ.

“Feed my lambs…Take care of my sheep…Feed my sheep…” – John 21:15-17

Goal #3 – To participate in compassionate ministry, daily reaching out to those around me and around the world. To meet their physical needs as well as spiritual needs.

“Peace be with you.” – John 20:19,21

Goal #4 – Don’t be afraid. Trust God with what is ahead. Rest in His care and in His plan, sit back and prepare for the ride of your life. Loosen your grip, raise your arms in the air and enjoy the ride.

Today’s Reading: Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:44 -53

Then he said, “When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ You are witnesses of all these things.

“And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” – Luke 24:44-49

When the Lord Jesus had finished talking with them, he was taken up into heaven and sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand. And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs. – Mark 16:19-20

Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven. So they worshiped him and then returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy. And they spent all of their time in the Temple, praising God. – Luke 24:50-53

The disciples enjoyed their time with Jesus but, just as he had foretold, his time with them came to an end. They may not have felt ready, but he had been preparing them for this moment throughout his whole ministry. He told them over and over again that he would go away, and he laid out for them the importance of believing IN him in order to spend eternity WITH him.

YOU MUST BELIEVE

Once more Jesus said to them, “I am going away, and you will look for me, and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come…You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am he, you will indeed die in your sins.” – John 8:21-24

“…But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” – Luke 13:5b

YOU MUST REPENT

Believing that Jesus is the Messiah is only the first step in finding salvation. Even the demons believe in God (James 2:19). Jesus made it clear that there needs to be a change in direction — that our faith needs to be reflected in our actions. Repent of your old way of life and follow Jesus into a new way. Repent — change direction; do a 180 degree turn. Stop the momentum of your bad decisions and head the other way.

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? – James 2:14

And when an unbeliever comes to faith in God, repenting of their sins, there is much rejoicing in heaven. Jesus who is eternal, Jesus who had witnessed it firsthand, told his listeners that the angels of God celebrate when the prodigal returns home.

“I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” – Luke 15:10b

YOU MUST BE READY

“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the middle of the night or toward daybreak. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” – Luke 12:35-40

The peace experienced at the ascension of Jesus exists when we hold tight to the promise that He will come again. So believe He is who He said He is, repent of your sins so that your faith is evidenced by your deeds, and be ready for His return.

“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” – Luke 12:48b

Today’s Reading: Mark 16:12-13; Luke 24:13-35; John 20:30-31

Jesus appeared to many people after his resurrection, including two men who were walking to a village outside of Jerusalem called Emmaus. As they walked, they discussed everything that had happened in Jerusalem. Jesus joined them in the conversation, but they were so caught up in their grief and dismay that they did not recognize him. He was intentionally showing up for them, but they did not see him; he chose to walk alongside them during a very difficult moment in their lives and they did not take note of his presence.

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.

When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” – Luke 24:25-32

I DO NOT WANT TO MISS A MOMENT OF THE PRESENCE OF JESUS IN MY LIFE.

I pray I do not become so distracted by my own worries and grief that I forget to turn my attention to the One who gave His life for me. I want to sit at the table with Jesus and recognize His presence as we break bread together. When Jesus shows up for me, I want to be paying attention.

The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name. – John 20:30-31

The miracles and conversations recorded in the gospels barely scratch the surface of all that those around Jesus would have experienced. Imagine the long conversations as they sat around an evening fire or walked from town to town. Consider how many miracles and healings the disciples would have witnessed in those three years; yet these stories were recorded for a specific purpose – so that we might believe and, by believing, experience eternal life.

I DO NOT WANT TO MISS THE GIFT OF ETERNAL LIFE BECAUSE I LACK THE FAITH TO BELIEVE.

I love the study of the gospels because I love the main character so much! I also love what comes next because Jesus continues on as the main character, even after He has ascended into Heaven. He continued to work THROUGH His disciples just as He continues to work THROUGH us today.

Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. – Philippians 2:12-13

Do you wonder what is ahead for you? Rest in His presence and enjoy some time with Him this morning. He will lead you and work through you according to His plan.

Today’s Reading: John 21:1-14

John tells one more story — the story of the morning Jesus made breakfast on the beach for some of his closest friends. On this day no one questioned who He was or what He was doing; they simply rested in the knowledge that he was the Lord and that he was alive. They had no idea what this next chapter of their lives would look like, but they were willing to do whatever Jesus wanted them to do.

WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?

Later, Jesus appeared again to the disciples beside the Sea of Galilee. This is how it happened. Several of the disciples were there – Simon Peter, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and the two other disciples.

Simon Peter said, “I’m going fishing.”

“We’ll come, too,” they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night. – John 21:1-3

I imagine the disciples did not know what to do with themselves. Jesus had already appeared to them twice since His resurrection but He was not with them at the time. I imagine they were kind of sitting around in silence, unsure of what to do next. Perhaps out of the awkward silence, Simon Peter stood up and declared, “I’m going fishing.” It was what they knew, what they had done before they followed Jesus, and what they returned to for comfort when they were unsure of what life held for them next. It must have sounded like a good idea to the whole group because they quickly joined in and followed Peter to the boat.

BUT SOMETIMES OUR NORMAL FEELS UNFAMILIAR.

Something was different this time. The men who knew fishing because they were fishermen were unable to catch any fish. What was going on? Why were the fish not biting on this beautiful early morning? The life that had previously been marked with familiarity and comfort now brought no results, because it was no longer their life.

At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn’t see who he was. He called out, “Fellows, caught any fish?”

“No,” they replied.

Then he said, “Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you’ll get some!” So they did, and they couldn’t haul in the net because there were so many fish in it.

Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic (for he had stripped for work), jumped into the water, and headed to shore. The others stayed with the boat and pulled the loaded net to the shore, for they were only about a hundred yards from shore. When they got there, they found breakfast waiting for them – fish cooking over a charcoal fire, and some bread.

“Bring some of the fish you’ve just caught,” Jesus said. So Simon Peter went aboard and dragged the net to the shore. There were 153 large fish, and yet the net hadn’t torn.

“Now come and have some breakfast!” Jesus said. None of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Then Jesus served them the bread and the fish. This was the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples since he had been raised from the dead. – John 21:4-14

I connect with this story because I love my morning time with Jesus. He does not make me a delicious breakfast of fish and bread, but He does feed me. He faithfully shows up in my life when I am wondering what is next. I ask myself — What does my day hold and what does God want me to do today? And when circumstances in my life are leaving me uncomfortable and I miss the familiarity of what I know, I do what I know to do — I trust in my Jesus to nourish and provide for me.

JESUS CAN HAVE MY “NEXT” BECAUSE I TRUST HIM.

Is there a situation or decision in your life that you need to bring to breakfast and give to the Lord this morning? Allow Him to fill you with His Spirit and rest in His presence before you start your day.

Today’s Reading: Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-31

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” — John 20:19-23

Thomas was not with the other disciples when Jesus appeared to them. If he had been there, he would have seen Jesus for himself. But Thomas was not in the room. His absence caused him to miss out on an opportunity to experience the risen Savior.

The disciples told Thomas what Jesus had said and what they had seen, but Thomas struggled to believe. He needed to see Jesus for himself — to see the nail marks in his hands and to touch the wounds where Jesus had been pierced. Thomas, still deep in his grief, needed proof in order to let go of his doubt and allow himself to believe that Jesus was alive.

Jesus appeared to Thomas, showing Him his wounds and calling him to believe. And because Thomas had not heard him say it to the other disciples, he took the time to say it again to this doubting disciple — “Peace be with you.”

Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”

Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” – John 20:26b-29

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR JESUS TODAY?

There are many who were raised in the church yet still struggle to believe in Jesus and His Sovereignty. Today, I ask them and I ask you the same question Jesus asked Mary and the question I challenge myself with today, “Who are you looking for?”

Jesus is ready and willing to reveal Himself to us today but we will miss it if we do not expect it – if we live today without expectation that Jesus will personally reach out to us. Things will happen and we will call them coincidences. God’s blessings will pour out on our life and we will call ourselves “lucky”. Evidence of Jesus will be all around us and we will say, “I wish God would show Himself to me.” I don’t want to miss out on seeing God today.

We have been studying the gospels for several months now — accounts of Jesus’ life that were written so that we can believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. It is in believing that he is who he says he is that we fully experience life in his name. Jesus’ call to Thomas to believe brings me back to one of the first verses I ever memorized and a verse we looked at towards the beginning of the book of John. It’s familiar to all of us and probably the most well-known verse in the Bible.

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16

Who are you looking for today? Will you join me in walking into our day with confidence that Jesus will reveal himself? Will you believe that Jesus is alive and actively involved in your life? And then, when we do experience Jesus today, let’s follow the same instructions He gave Mary and pass on the message to others – “I have seen the Lord!”