Words of Provision
Scripture Reading — Acts 1:1-8
[Jesus] breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
John 20:22
On the first Easter Sunday evening, Jesus gave his disciples not only words of purpose (John 20:21). He also gave them words indicating that he would provide for them. He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” To fulfill their purpose of carrying on his mission in the world, his followers would need the provision of the Holy Spirit.
On our own, we don’t have what it takes to seek and save the lost. If we’re going to pick up the baton of Jesus’ mission, we’re going to need the power of the Holy Spirit!
When Jesus invited his disciples to receive his Spirit on Easter evening, it was just a foretaste of what would happen a few weeks later. Jesus would tell the disciples to wait in Jerusalem till they received the special gift promised them by God. And when that day arrived, they would be filled with the Holy Spirit.
After the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Day of Pentecost (fifty days after Passover), the disciples were never the same again (Acts 2:1-4). They taught and served with a new power that was irresistible. In fact, “the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47).
That same provision of power is available to us as we trust in Christ and remain in his love (John 15:5, 9-10).
O God on High, fill me with your Spirit so that I might have power to serve others in your name! Amen.
About the author — Shawn Brix
Rev. Shawn Brix has served as pastor in several Ontario churches. He and his wife, Jenny, have three children.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!