Called to Be a Witness
Scripture Reading — Acts 1:1-11
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses. . . .”
— Acts 1:8
I once served as a witness on a legal matter. The lawyers determined to make sure that my memories were clear and that the timeline of events was accurate. They also told me to share everything about the situation that I could; they would decide which details were important and which ones weren’t. It is significant that Jesus, before he ascended to heaven, commissioned his followers with these words: “You will be my witnesses. . . .” We serve as witnesses to Jesus, the Lord of the universe.
I don’t know about you, but this feels like a daunting task, especially when Jesus says that our witness begins where we are and extends to the ends of the earth. Do I have what it takes to be that kind of witness? Thankfully, we do not do this alone.As Jesus commissions us, he promises the gift of his Holy Spirit. He also commissions us, his followers, as a community. This is our task, together. This month, let’s explore how to bear witness to Jesus. In my work with Resonate Global Mission, I see examples of faithful witness every day. The Spirit is alive and well around the world! I look forward to exploring and sharing with you what mission looks like in our lives today.
Jesus, as we explore what it means to be your witnesses, we want to open our hearts to your call. Fill us with your Spirit and teach us how we can grow as witnesses for you. Amen.
About the author — Kevin DeRaaf
Kevin DeRaaf is the director of Resonate Global Mission, the Christian Reformed mission agency working in more than 40 countries around the world. With a focus on encouraging others to join in God’s mission where they are, Kevin believes that God’s purpose for the local church is to shine as a community of love and grace, showing in tangible ways that Jesus is the hope of the world. He and his wife, Jacquie, have three children and four grandchildren and live in Burlington, Ontario.
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