Monday 17 April 2023

Background

Today we are reflecting on the first eight verses of the Book of Acts, a biblical account of the works of the disciples after Jesus’ death written by Luke. It is a passage in which Jesus prepares the disciples to “go forth and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Usually when we hear the story of Jesus visiting the disciples after his crucifixion, we think it only happens twice, but this passage tell us it happened for 40 days during which he share the secrets of heaven. To me, this is Jesus knowing he only has a few more precious moments with the disciples before ascending to heaven, ensuring that they are prepared enough to lead when he is no longer with them.

However, saying this, Jesus does not share all his wisdom with the disciples. He refuses to answer one of the group’s questions stating “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority.” (v. 7) I think this is a clever part of God’s plan, not telling us about it, because it reminds me of having guests around. Think about it, if you know when your guests are coming, you go round the house cleaning up and making everything look perfect at the last minute. However, if you do not know the time of their arrival, there is a chance you will be caught off guard and your visitors will see exactly how you live. It is a test to identify the true followers of God and who is a follower in name but not deed.

Finally, the disciples are told they will be baptised with the Holy Spirit in a few days.

To Ponder:

• If you had 40 days with Jesus, hearing about the kingdom of heaven, what questions would you ask?
• In the Bible there are several mentions of events taking 40 days. As well as this passage, there is a 40-day flood in Genesis and Jesus is in the desert for 40 days in Matthew's Gospel. Do you think 40 days has significance?
• If told you were going to be baptised with the Holy Spirit, how would you react?

Prayer

Prepared and mysterious God, we thank you for our lives and the support and freedom you grant us. Please impart the Holy Spirit on us all and tell us how we can share it with others. Amen.