The Power of the Spirit
Scripture Reading — Acts 1:3-9
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.”
— Acts 1:8
A radio show once asked, “If you could choose between having the power of invisibility or flight, which would you choose?” Most answers were not flashy or heroic. Some people said they wanted invisibility so that they could sneak into the movies or onto airplanes. Others said they wanted to be able to fly so that they could stop taking the bus. Almost no one said they would use their power to fight crime or to help others. People weren’t much interested in using their power to make the world a better place.
It seems we have a natural tendency to misuse even imaginary power! This is important to think about.
In Acts 1:8 Jesus says to us, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” This is nothing like any other power, real or imagined. Jesus is speaking of the very power of God himself. It is the same power that spoke creation into existence and raised Jesus from the dead. This power is what brings us from death to eternal life, and it is now at work in us and through us. Jesus gives us this power for a specific purpose: to be his witnesses.
The power of the Spirit is not for selfish gain or to make our life easier. Instead, we receive it so that others might encounter the love and forgiveness of Jesus through us. May we steward it well.
Lord God, thank you for sacrificing your Son so that your Spirit may live in us. Holy Spirit, work within us so that we can know you better and share your amazing love with others. 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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