To have been in Jerusalem that day when Jesus’ promise was first fulfilled would have been glorious! Albeit a little frightening, I’m sure, for those who didn’t understand what was happening. “They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed.” As soon as the realization hit the disciples, that they were witnessing what Jesus had described to them in our last reading, they were in awe.
Peter was so moved he started preaching! He got their attention using Joel’s fulfilled prophecy to explain what was happening. Of course, he shared with everyone his own testimony of what Jesus had done and how that changed his life! Many people were moved by hearing words they had never heard before. People were encountering Jesus’ Spirit without him being visually present (except in tongues of flames)! The church was born that day!
Peter even quoted King David, a man after God’s own heart. “You have shown me the way of life, and you will fill me with the joy of your presence.” David’s faith was strong and a good example for us as well. David didn’t question God’s presence or blessings. Is that a word you need to hear today? Is something in your life zapping you of your joy?
Peter proclaimed the truth boldly. “So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah!” If we could be that bold! We’ve been called to spread the good news to the ends of the earth. Remember the Great Commission? Most of us are most familiar with the Great Commission as recorded in Matthew 28:16-20. But you can read Luke’s version in Luke 24:45-48 or Acts 1:8.
Are you feeling at all unsure of your own faith? Take some time today to ask God to open your heart. Let Peter’s cry be for you, too. The situation of our world today doesn’t look that much different. “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!” You are not alone. You have access to the Holy Spirit right now!
How do we save ourselves? “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.” Yes! That’s what’s so beautiful. The Holy Spirit is available to all who turn to Jesus.
I love how the book of Acts gives us a glimpse into the lives of the early church leaders. What do we see here of the “believers” and their response to the Holy Spirit in their lives? They shared meals together, prayed together, and worshipped together. They performed miracles they couldn’t have done on their own power. They became generous and giving toward each other. Doesn’t that all sound fantastic? How many churches have you belonged to that acted in such ways?
We should note the last line of this reading and not rush past it. “And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” Who was ultimately responsible for the growth of this new church fellowship? God. He has called us to be his hands and feet to reach out and do all these things, but he is the ultimate power. We can never forget that!
There’s a lot we can learn from this early church. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s power to be revealed to you. Be ready to act on God’s leading!
Let’s pray. Father, may I recognize your Spirit moving inside me. Forgive me again for how I have fallen short of your plan for me. I trust you Jesus for all that I say and do. Thank you for the power you have given me access to. May I never take that for granted but be generous and loving like the first believers were. Help me stay focused on you when the powers of evil try to disarm me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
