05/31/2020
Difficult circumstances often bring uncertainty. We find ourselves with more questions than answers. The future can become filled with more fear than hope.
After Jesus’ resurrection, the disciples had many questions about what the future would hold. There was uncertainty about how life would look and whether things would ever be “normal” again.
In Acts 1:6, we find the apostles gathered around Jesus, just before His ascension, asking, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?” (NLT)
In words that may sound more familiar to us, we might think of the disciples as asking, “Lord, has the time come for you to free us from our present circumstances and go back to the way things used to be?”
Jesus does not give a straightforward answer. Instead, he replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere...” (Acts 1:7-8a, NLT)
Then, Jesus ascended to heaven. The disciples were left to continue navigating the new “normal” they were living in. However, they had a promise that they would not have to do it on their own. Instead, they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came to them. And they would tell people about Christ everywhere they went.
On the Day of Pentecost, as the disciples were praying, the Holy Spirit came upon each of them, filling their mouths with testimonies about the wonderful things God had done (see Acts 2:11b).
Peter, filled with the Spirit, quotes David, saying:
"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." (Acts 2:25-26, NLT)
Throughout the pages of the New Testament, we read that despite hardships, trials and so much uncertainty about the future, the Holy Spirit strengthened believers to persevere.
Are you facing uncertain circumstances?
Do you feel like you have little control over what’s going on?
Does it seem like no one has clear answers about what will happen?
We need not be shaken or fearful. We are promised the same gift the early church had — the Holy Spirit. He gives us peace of mind, gladness of heart, mouths filled with praise and the ability to find rest in hope (see Acts 2:38b-39). The Lord is right beside us and working in us through the Holy Spirit. Because of Him, we too can say, “You have shown me the way of life, and you fill me with the joy of your presence.” (Acts 2:28, NLT)
As Acts 2 closes, we read that the believers’ new “normal” included devoting themselves to discipleship, fellowship, sharing and prayer — all while praising God (see Acts 2:42-47). Scripture invites us to do the same. And we can, as the Holy Spirit gives us strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Though our future may feel uncertain, we can confidently trust everything to God.
This Sunday is Pentecost.
With so many disruptions to our normal routines, it is important that we continue to make time to celebrate God’s gifts in the celebrations that are part of the sacred rhythms of the Church. Set aside time this week to celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit.
~ Pastor Ben
