Acts 1-3

Acts 1-3 marks the beginning of Luke's second book in the New Testament.  Forty days is significant again in the Bible, as Jesus appears to the disciples this long preparing them before He goes to Heaven.  A close follower of Jesus named Matthias is chosen to replace Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus.  The Holy Spirit fills Jesus' disciples and followers with a violent wind on the day of Pentecost, and the church begins.  The disciples are now apostles, and they go into the world to share Jesus' message.

Look at how the Holy Spirit changes Peter and strengthens His faith.  He's the guy who denied Jesus three times the day He is crucified (John 13:31-38).  He is also the same guy  Jesus puts on the spot three times, calling His faith into question (John 21:15-25).  Now look at him!  God is using Him in amazing ways.  Peter tells us what we need to remember as Christians,

³⁸ Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ³⁹ The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Acts 2:38-39

Here's the thing that is so hard for us to grasp as believers because it is beyond our understanding...the Holy Spirit that empowers Peter in today's reading, fills and empowers us and our children too.  It is a gift because with it, we are able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

The question is, will we tap into this power that is at work within us?

A prayer for today-

Dear God,

Thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit that is in me.  Forgive me for all the things that get in the way of Christ's love at work in me.  I bring them to you today __________.  I pray you will keep guiding me, shaping me, and transforming me so that I may glorify You in all that I do.

In the name of Jesus I pray,

Amen

Peace, love, and grace of Christ to you,