3RD WEEK OF EASTER

Those who had been scattered went about preaching the word. 

Just before he ascended, Jesus told the disciples to remain in Jerusalem until they were “clothed with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). So they waited, and just as Jesus promised, they were indeed filled with the Holy Spirit. From that day forward, the Spirit worked mightily through them to bring countless people to faith in Jesus. Then they continued to stay in Jerusalem to help minister to all these new believers.

But that all changed with the persecution that broke out after Stephen’s martyrdom. Not wanting to court trouble, many of Jesus’ first followers dispersed to other towns and cities. But even there, even after the threats they faced in Jerusalem, they didn’t hide their message. As a result, the gospel began to spread far and wide.

We may face challenges to our faith as well. We are likely not subject to actual persecution, but perhaps we are in environments where conversations about our faith in Christ might not be very welcome. While we don’t want to invite hostility, neither should we feel compelled to hide our faith. At times this can feel like a balancing act: How much can I say?

This is not always an easy question to answer. Sometimes you may get it wrong and say too much—or too little. But always remember that the first disciples asked the same question. Remember too that you have the same Holy Spirit who helped them. He will help you know what to say if an opportunity to share your faith arises. He will also help you discern whether to say anything at all! And perhaps most important, he will give you the grace to remain peaceful no matter your situation. Remember, it’s the witness of your love, your joy, and your trust in the Lord that will have the greatest impact.

The first Christians were everyday people just as we are. Whatever success they had came from the same source as it will for you: the Holy Spirit. So ask the Spirit to fill you every day. Ask him for the grace, the courage, and the humility to bring Christ to the people around you.

“Holy Spirit, help me know how to share the good news of the gospel wherever I find myself.”

Psalm 66:1-7
John 6:35-40
Acts 8:1-8