Daily Reading

Acts 3:1-26; Psalm 36:1-12; Proverbs 10:1-2

So, yesterday I sent out the reading: Acts 2:1-47; Psalm 35:17-28; Proverbs 10:1-2. But I did not have an opportunity to post the reading online. Sorry. For those of you who don't get the text update - here's a recap:

The disciples obeyed Jesus & waited in Jerusalem until the day of Pentecost. Did you know Pentecost is an Old Testament festival? It had been celebrated every year since the days of Moses. Pentecost represented the giving of the law to Moses at Mount Sinai. By giving His law to the people, God reveals Himself & His nature to the people. So Pentecost is a celebration of revelation. Now, just as with Passover, Jesus is fulfilling the new covenant with this festival. For on the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit filled believers, writing the law on their hearts. Interesting isn't it? What was given to the Jewish people on a national level has now been internalized and given on a personal level.

Since this was a pilgrim festival, every male in the Jewish nation was in Jerusalem. So many witnessed the incredible change that came over the disciples. In fact, they heard the disciples speaking in their own languages! Many were intrigued, others used the opportunity to mock, but Peter - bold Peter - stood up & gave an incredible sermon full of power & understanding. This sermon led 3,000 people to be saved! Notice, these people were baptized and brought into the group. They became part of this new movement & they devoted themselves to learning, prayer, & their new church family. Becoming a Christian is more than a religious choice. You are brought into a FAMILY that spends time together building each other up, helping each other with their needs, & drawing closer to each other & to God. Are you a part of your family? Do you spend time with your brothers & sisters in Christ? Are you sharing, learning, do you fellowship? Or have you isolated yourself from the group?

Our reading today continues the story of the early days of this new movement that will eventually be called Christianity. Peter & John are continuing the ministry of Jesus Christ - healing & teaching. Notice their boldness & confidence. Where did this come from? Well, a complete & unwavering faith in the death & resurrection of Jesus Christ. AND the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Each one of us has this confidence & boldness at our fingertips. The Holy Spirit resides in each of us. You have been given the same tools that these apostles have through the Holy Spirit. Start relying on Him. Start trusting Him. And most importantly - start listening to Him.

Psalms & Proverbs both speak of wisdom today - the wise obeys the Lord, the foolish make up their own way. Which do you want to be?