LONELY QUIET PLACES

THE SHEPHERDS

Read Luke 2:8–20

      "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10–11 NKJV

* * *

      Exhausted but happy, Joseph wraps his newborn babe in swaddling clothes and lays him at Mary's side. They are alone, in the city of their birth, but not their home. Only the sound of animals disturbs their quiet conversation. What will life be like with this child of God? Soon they will be able to consummate their marriage and build a family together.

      Meanwhile, out in the nearby fields, a lowly group of shepherds are in for a big surprise. Suddenly an angel appears in the night sky surrounded by the glory of the Lord. He announces, “There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:11 NKJV) Lonely quiet places - this stable - those fields - where all of history would be changed. Even today we date our lives from this event.

* * *

      Lord, help me to value the lonely, quiet moments of my life. They are so few and yet so valuable. Speak to my heart this morning with words of peace. Like Mary, I truly desire to understand Your ways and ponder them in my heart.

* * *

      "All those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:18-19 NKJV

MINISTRY OF ENCOURAGEMENT

AQUILLA AND PRISCILLA

Read Acts 18

     There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Acts 18:2 NIV

* * *

     Leaving the city of Athens, Paul traveled to Corinth where he sought work. He met Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish believers who had recently been banished from Rome. As natives of Pontus, Aquila and Priscilla may have heard the gospel on the Day of Pentecost and fled to Rome during the dispersion of the church from Jerusalem.

     Now by God's sovereign design, He used them in the evangelistic ministry of Paul, traveling with him to Ephesus, where they stayed and worked with the Ephesian church. Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. When Priscilla and Aquila heard Apollos' dynamic preaching, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. (18:26)

* * *

     This faithful, mature couple set an example of patient endurance, hard work and fruitful ministry. Lord, I pray that our home will always be a welcoming place where other believers are encouraged and built up in the Word.

* * *

     When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. Acts 18:27 NIV

AN UNKNOWN GOD

Read Acts 17:22–34

    "Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Acts 17:22b–23a NIV

* * *

     After fleeing to Athens, Paul found himself in a very different setting. He went to the marketplace daily, preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection to all who would listen. This was easily done since "all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas." (17:21)

     A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers disputed with him about Jesus' resurrection from the dead. Paul began his argument with what they knew, their altar to An Unknown God:

     "Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth…" (17:23b-24a)
     "From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him…”(17:26-27)

* * *

     Paul was trained in the Jewish law, but the Spirit enabled him to present the gospel to secular philosophers in a way they could understand. Lord, give us this kind of discernment to be ready to give an answer to people we meet from different walks of life.

* * *

     "In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent." Acts 17:30 NIV

MORE NOBLE CHARACTER

THESSALONICA AND BEREA

Read Acts 17:1–15

     Paul reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ."  Acts 17:2-3 NKJV

* * *

     For three Sabbaths Paul taught in the synagogue at Thessalonica before opposition began. Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks, both men and women. These would become the founders of the Thessalonian church.
     But the Jewish leaders were jealous and hired some evil men to round up a mob and cause a riot. When word of this arrived, the believers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea.

     "Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men." (Acts 17:11-12 NIV)

* * *

     Lord, help us to be like the Bereans, getting to know Your Word and teaching it accurately to our children, so that they can recognize the difference between truth and error and find Your perfect will for their lives

* * *

     When the Jews in Thessalonica learned that Paul was preaching the word of God at Berea, they went there too, agitating the crowds and stirring them up. The brothers immediately sent Paul to the coast, but Silas and Timothy stayed at Berea.   Acts 17:13-14 NIV

SINGING IN PRISON

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

Read Acts 16:16–40

      At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:25 NKJV

* * *

      One day on the way to the place of prayer a demon possessed girl followed Paul and Silas shouting "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved."
     Finally Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the demon, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" (Acts 16:17-18) 

     This act of compassion for the girl resulted in a loss of profits for her owners, so they arrested and flogged Paul and Silas, threw them into prison, and fastened their feet in stocks.
     At midnight, as they were singing hymns, a violent earthquake caused the doors to open and everyone's chains to come loose. The frightened jailer cried out, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved–you and your household." (Acts 16:30-31)
     At that very hour of the night, Paul shared the gospel with the jailer's family and they believed and were baptized. After they left the prison, Paul and Silas  went to the house of Lydia, the "seller of purple" who had opened her home to believers.

* * *

      Lord, Your chosen ones were in every place the apostles traveled: A city given over to demons, a cold dark prison, a women's prayer group by the river – all known to You from before the beginning of time. Thank You for including us in this vast multitude of believers.

* * *

      So they went out of the prison and entered the house of Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they encouraged them and departed. Acts 16:40 NKJV

COME HELP US

LYDIA OF PHILIPPI

Read Acts 16:6–15

     And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." Acts 16:9 NKJV

* * *

      Paul, Silas and Timothy attempted to enter Asia on their second missionary journey, but the Holy Spirit prevented them, closing the door on their plans. That night, Paul had a vision as he slept, of a man pleading with him to come to Macedonia, so Paul changed his plans and took Silas and Timothy to Philippi. 

     When the three men arrived in Philippi, they stayed there for several days. On the Sabbath they went to the riverside where prayer was customarily made. What they found was not a man, as Paul saw in his vision, but a prayer meeting for women.

     One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. (16:14 NIV)

     Lydia opened both her heart and her home for the apostles to stay, planting a church at Philippi and beginning what would become a lighthouse of the gospel in Europe where many men and women came to faith in Christ.

* * *

      Lord, how glad I am that You value the ministry of women like Lydia, Mary, Martha, and so many others who helped to start the early churches. May our homes be open and hospitable and lighthouses to our communities. Multiply our influence through our families.

* * *

     When she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay." Acts 16:15 NKJV

DISAGREEMENTS

TIMOTHY

Read Acts 15:36-41; 1Timothy 1; 2 Timothy 1:5–7

      He came to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewess and a believer, but whose father was a Greek.    Acts 16:1 NIV

* * *

      Many of the believers in Antioch were taking on the responsibility of teaching and preaching, so Paul said to Barnabas, "Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing." (Acts 15:36) Barnabas insisted on taking John Mark along, but Paul sharply disagreed because Mark deserted them on the first journey. So Paul chose Silas, while Barnabas continued with Mark and they went their separate ways. God blessed the ministry of all these men.

* * *

      It must have been a heartbreaking loss for Paul to break fellowship with his friend Barnabas but soon after that, Paul met another man with the gift of encouragement, Timothy. Paul would later say of him, "Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel"   (Philippians 2:22)

* * *

      Lord, sometimes we are saddened when believers disagree. But You are always faithful to provide the encouragement we need to keep going. Help us to trust in Your perfect provision and plan for our lives. 

* * *

      "For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church."
1 Corinthians 4:17 NKJV

TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

A LIGHT FOR THE GENTILES

Read: Acts 13:13–52

     " I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth."  Acts 13:47 NIV

* * *

     Paul and Barnabas, led by the Holy Spirit, set out on a journey to Cyprus where they spoke in the synagogues. From there they traveled to Pisidian Antioch where the synagogue rulers sent word to them, saying, "Brothers, if you have a message of encouragement for the people, please speak." (13:15)
     Paul stood up and motioned with his hand, "Men of Israel and you Gentiles, who worship God, listen to me …We tell you the good news: What God promised our fathers he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus…" (13:16, 32-33a)

     The people, eager to hear more, invited the apostles to speak the next Sabbath when almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and talked abusively against what Paul was saying. (13:44-45)

     The desire for power in these men blinded them to the truth that their Messiah had come and offered them forgiveness of sin. By rejecting Him, they gave up the gift of eternal life.

* * *

     Lord, I am so thankful that You offered that gift to us also, so that we could share the good news with others, both Jews and Gentiles.

* * *

     "We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles."  Acts 13:46b

UNEXPECTED ANSWER

KING HEROD'S PERSECUTION

Read Acts 12:1–24

     (King Herod) had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword… So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. Acts 12:2, 5 NIV

* * *

     On the last night before Peter's trial, the disciples gathered at John Mark's home to pray for his deliverance. What they did not expect, was that their prayers would be miraculously answered that very night. A young servant girl, Rhoda, came to answer the door, and when she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!"
     "You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel." (12:14–15)

     While they tried to process what was happening, Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. (12:16)

* * *

     Lord, I wonder how many times I have prayed without really expecting an answer. It is a comfort to me that You worked this miracle, not because of the strength of their faith, but on the basis of Your Almighty power in answer to earnest prayer.

* * *

     …Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, "This is the voice of a god, not of a man." Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.   Acts 12:21–23 NIV

THE ENCOURAGER

BARNABAS

Read Acts 11:19–30, 12:24–13:3

     They sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. Acts 11:22-23 NIV

* * *

    Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, received a new Christian name from the apostles. They called him Barnabas, which means "Son of Encouragement." He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord through his ministry. (11:24) He went to Tarsus to find Saul, and brought him to Antioch, where the two of them ministered for a year. In later years Saul, also called Paul, would write of Barnabas and his cousin John Mark, "They have proved to be a comfort to me." (Colossians 4:11)

     Barnabas possessed the gifts of encouragement and discernment. He was quick to recognize the Spirit of the Lord in a new believer and slow to write him off when he failed. His cousin John Mark ran away during a time of persecution, but later rejoined Barnabas in powerful ministry.

* * *

     Lord, help me to be an encourager like Barnabas. Grant me the wisdom to teach our children how to encourage each other as well. As with Barnabas, fill us with the Holy Spirit and faith so that we can encourage other Christians to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. (11:23-24)

WHAT GOD HAS CLEANSED

PETER AND CORNELIUS

Read Acts 11:1–18

     But the voice answered me again from heaven, 'What God has cleansed you must not call common.' Acts 11:9 NKJV

* * *

      Up to this time, the apostles preached primarily to the Jewish people. Even at Pentecost, the people from various nations were professing Jews. To come to God, Peter believed a person must become a Jew and follow the Jewish laws and abstain from eating certain foods. This story about Peter's vision reveals God's plan to bring the gospel to the world.

     God told Peter that he was going to do a new thing through him. He directed Peter to an Italian centurion named Cornelius whose heart was prepared to hear the gospel. Today he and his household were going to hear the good news, believe it, and receive the Holy Spirit; bringing the first of many Gentiles into the New Testament church.

* * *

      Dear heavenly Father, help me to remember that before I ever speak to someone about Christ, You have already paved the way. You said, "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him,"(John 6:44 NKJV) I pray for the drawing of the Holy Spirit in the lives of our friends and children and grandchildren. Speak to their hearts, so that our words will fall on willing ears.

* * *

     If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?" Acts 11:17 NKJV

THE MAN WHO RAISED HAVOC

FROM DAMASCUS TO JERUSALEM

Read: Acts 9:23–31

     All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name?" Acts 9:21 NIV

* * *

     After Saul's conversion, and recovery from blindness, he began to preach openly, that "Jesus is the Son of God." Believers were afraid of him, and Jews wanted to kill him; so his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall. (9:25)

     From there he traveled back to Jerusalem to join the believers there, but they didn't think he was sincere. With the help of Barnabas, he told his story to the apostles, and was accepted into the church. For a time he spoke boldly to the Jews about his newfound faith, but persecution began again, and Saul left for Tarsus.

* * *

     Lord, I can just imagine how those early Christians must have felt. Saul was the one who stood by while Stephen was martyred. He was the one who dragged off men and women and put them in prison. Not only did they need to believe him, they also had to forgive him.

     Thank You for forgiving me, and help me to learn to forgive others who have "caused havoc in the church."

* * *

     Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit; it grew in numbers, living in the fear of the Lord. Acts 9:31 NIV

A SPECIAL APPOINTMENT

PHILIP

Read Acts 8:26–40; Isaiah 53:7–8

     Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Go south to the road-the desert road-that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." Acts 8:26 NIV

* * *

     God had a special appointment for Philip on a desert road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. Though he didn't know it, he was to meet with the chief treasurer for Queen Candace of Ethiopia. This man was sitting in his chariot reading aloud from the book of Isaiah the prophet.
     Philip approached and asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?" "How can I," he said, "unless someone explains it to me? …who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?"  (8:30b-31a, 34b NIV)
     The passage read, "He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. In his humiliation he was deprived of justice…For his life was taken from the earth." (Acts 8:32–33 NIV)

     Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. (8:35)

* * *

     Philip didn't know why he was told to go to the desert, but God had a specific reason for sending him there. Lord, when I am worried, help me to trust Your leading for our family, knowing that You have a purpose for our lives, and perhaps that purpose will be to influence and encourage other people along the way.

* * *

     Then…Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing.  Acts 8:38-39 NIV

WHO ARE YOU LORD?

SAUL

Read Acts 8:1–3; 9:1–22

     Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. Acts 8:2-3

* * *

      The day that Stephen was martyred, a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem. The young man, Saul, asked for official approval to go to Damascus, and arrest any who belonged to "the Way," whether men or women. (9:2)
      Saul did this believing that he had God's approval as well. Later he would say, "I was advancing in Judaism beyond many Jews of my own age and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers." (Galatians1:14)
      On his way to Damascus, this fiery zealous young man had a massive change of heart. He met Jesus who said, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" His immediate response was, "Who are you, Lord?" (Acts 9:4–5)

* * *

      Dear Jesus, You are the One who knows men's hearts. Help me to believe that even those who seem to oppose the gospel may have a heart that is searching, and when You speak to them, they will recognize Your voice, because they are Your chosen ones.

* * *

      "God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles… " Galatians 1:15-16a

INFLUENCE THROUGH SACRIFICE

STEPHEN MARTYRED

Read Acts Chapters 6 ─ 7

     These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. Acts 6:9b–10 NIV

* * *

      The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. This was a major threat to the powers in control, so not finding anything with which to accuse Stephen, they lied about him and brought him before the Sanhedrin.
      Amazingly, in the face of death, Stephen began by giving a complete overview of Israel's history – ending with, "Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous one. And now you have betrayed and murdered him…" (7:52 NIV)
     Stephen was chosen by the church to be a deacon. His job was distributing food among the widows, but he also continued to teach and preach about Jesus Christ. God had a particular Pharisee for Stephen to influence ─ the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. (7:58 NIV) Later this man would be converted and become the Apostle to the Gentiles, Paul, who would write letters from prison now included in Holy Scripture.

* * *

      Lord, we never know what You will accomplish through those we influence - especially our children. Help us to be faithful.

* * *

      While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep. Acts 7:59-60 NIV

WE MUST OBEY GOD

THE APOSTLES IMPRISONED

Read Acts 5:12–32

      Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him . . . laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison. Acts 5:17-18 NKJV

* * *

      Through the preaching of Spirit-filled apostles, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. (5:14) The result was that the High Priest and other Sadducees were filled with jealousy, and had them arrested.
      After a miraculous escape from prison, the apostles were again taken to the High Priest who said, "We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,…yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching…" Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men! (5:28-29)
      One of the most convincing proofs of the power of the Holy Spirit was the courage of these ordinary uneducated men. But with God's help, they became extraordinary witnesses for the kingdom.

* * *

      Lord, I pray that You will give this ordinary woman an extraordinary filling of Your Spirit today. Help me to keep eternal values in view as I do my daily tasks, and try to love my family and other people as You love me.

* * *

      Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ. Acts 5:42 NIV

A SURE FOUNDATION

JESUS THE CORNERSTONE

Read: Read Acts 4:1–22

     This is the 'stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone. Acts 4:11 NKJV

* * *

     The religious leaders were in a dilemma: A man had been healed and Peter and John insisted that the healing was in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the One they had crucified.

     Jesus was, they said, a fulfillment of Isaiah's prophesy: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed." (Isaiah 28:16 NIV)
     But this same Jesus had become to them "…A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense." (Isaiah 8:14)

* * *

     They stumbled because they refused to receive the Lord as Savior, in spite of His miracles and fulfillment of prophesy. But God has something better in mind for those of us who have received Him:
      "Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy," (Jude 24) to Him be the glory! Thank You Lord Jesus!

* * *

     'Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12 NKJV

IN THE NAME OF JESUS

A LAME MAN HEALED

Read Acts 3

     Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Acts 3:6 NIV

* * *

     After Pentecost the Apostles were granted the gift of healing that Jesus had promised they would have after He went to the Father. When this man began to walk and praise God, the people were astonished because they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. (3:10) 

     Then Peter said, “Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?” (3:12b)

     This was a moment when Peter and John could have taken credit, but instead Peter began to preach a disturbing message: He proclaimed to them, “you killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this…” (3:15)

* * *

     Lord, I pray that whatever ministry you accomplish through my life, that I will always give glory to You. Help me to be sensitive to the kind of message that will be received, speaking boldly or gently as the occasion requires. You have promised to give the wisdom I need. Thank You, Lord.

* * *

     By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see. (Acts 3:16 NIV)

POWER FROM ABOVE - WITHIN

COURAGE TO WITNESS

PENTECOST

Read: Acts 2:1–47

     Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. Acts 2:2 NIV

* * *

     Jesus told His disciples that they would receive power from the Holy Spirit and they would be witnesses to the world, beginning at Jerusalem. So they waited until the day of the feast of Pentecost when Jerusalem was filled with God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. (2:5) As the apostles began to speak, the people all said, "How is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?" (2:8)

     Peter, who had once fled in fear of the Jews, now stood up in front of the largest crowd of Jews he could possibly imagine, and says, "This man (Jesus) was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him." (2:23-25)

* * *

     What a change God's indwelling Spirit had made in Peter. Lord, this same Holy Spirit lives in us, please give us the courage to witness to our generation and the generations to come.

* * *

     The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off–for all whom the Lord our God will call." Acts 2:39

NOT ALONE

THIS SAME JESUS

Read: Acts 1:1–11

          He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. Acts 1:3 NKJV

* * *

      After forty days of being with Jesus and rejoicing that He was truly alive, the disciples asked Him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" (Acts1:6 NIV) He told them that it was not for them to know the times and dates.
      "But," He said, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (1:7-8 NIV)
      Then just as they must have wanted to ask Him many other things, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight!

* * *

      Lord, I can't imagine how alone they must have felt at that moment. We know now, and they knew in just a few days, that they would not be alone. Lord, I praise You that You have given us Your Holy Spirit to guide us. Thank You that though we cannot see Him, He dwells within us and prays for us according to Your will.

* * *

      This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Acts 1:11b NIV

TOUCH ME AND SEE

THOMAS BELIEVES

Read: Luke 24:36–43; John 20:24–31

     But he (Thomas) said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it." John 20:25 NIV

* * *

      Eight days before this scene, the disciples stared in amazed unbelief. Jesus suddenly appeared, and they thought they were seeing a ghost. Then He asked for something to eat and said, "Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." (Luke 24:39)

      Now Thomas is unconvinced, since he has not yet seen the Lord. When Jesus appeared again, and showed him his hands and side, Thomas exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28) Jesus had been telling His disciples all along that he would rise from the dead, but this was something they couldn't comprehend.

* * *

      We have the advantage of the complete Scriptures, explaining how all these things fit together with Old Testament prophesy; yet Lord, there are times I struggle to understand Your plan for us. Perhaps it is just enough to say, "My Lord and my God!"

* * *

      Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." John 20:29 NKJV

I HAVE SEEN THE LORD!

MARY MAGDALENE

Read: John 20:1–18

     They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." John 20:13 NIV

* * *

     Mary Magdalene was one of the devout women who supplied the needs of Jesus and His disciples throughout His ministry. She had been delivered from demon possession as were others who followed Him.

     Mary Magdalene stood at the foot of the cross with Mary, the mother of Jesus and later she came to the tomb to grieve – instead she had an encounter with angels who told her the Christ had risen.

     Then she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, so changed that she did not realize that it was He ─ until He said her name,"Mary." then she turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (20:16)
     Mary Magdalene was forgiven much and she loved much. Her life was dedicated to the ministry and to being a friend to other believers. God chose her to be the first one to see her risen Lord.

* * *

     Thank You Jesus that You came to set people like Mary free from their sin. Help me to show my love for you by serving other believers and sharing the Good News with those who do not know Him.

* * *
Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" John 20:18 NIV

SECRET DISCIPLES

Read John 19:38-42

      After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus. John 19:38 NKJV

* * *

      Here are two Jewish men, one of them Nicodemus, a Pharisee and the other Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent wealthy council member; both of them secret disciples of Jesus. On one occasion Nicodemus tried to speak up at a council meeting by saying, "Does our law judge a man before it hears him and knows what he is doing?" They ridiculed him by saying, "Are you also from Galilee? Search and look, for no prophet has arisen out of Galilee." (John 7:50 - 53)

* * *

      After the crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea gathered up his courage and asked Pilot for Jesus' body. He and Nicodemus - no longer secret disciples - prepared the body for burial and laid it in Joseph's new tomb - fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy that Messiah would be buried in a rich man's grave. (Isaiah 53:9)

* * *

      Lord, forgive me when I have been reluctant to speak up for You among unbelievers. Give me courage and discernment to know when and where to share my faith.

* * *

      And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. John 19:39 NKJV

AT THE CROSS

BEHOLD YOUR MOTHER

Read John 19:17-37

     Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. John 19:25-26 NKJV

* * *

     Years ago, Mary had stood with Joseph before the Priest to dedicate her newborn Son. The old man Simeon had prophesied, "This child is destined to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." (Luke 2:34-35) Now she was experiencing the ultimate piercing of her soul, as Jesus hung from the cross in agonizing pain.

* * *

     When Jesus saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, "Woman, behold your son!" Then He said to the disciple, "Behold your mother!" And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home. John 19:26-27 NKJV

* * *

     Jesus knew the emotional pain that this moment brought to His mother. God had chosen her of all women to give birth to His Son. But His plans for her were not over. after the resurrection and ascension, her other sons became devout believers. In Acts we read, These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. Acts 1:14 NKJV

* * *

     Lord, so often Mary stood in the background watching God's plan unfold. She is an example I would like to follow when it seems better to be still and wait on You. What honor came to this humble woman as the Son of God saw to her needs in His last hour. I know that You are aware of my needs and the needs of my children. I pray that like Mary's sons they will follow You.

* * *

     One of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water... These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled ..."They will look on the one they have pierced." John 19:34-37; Zechariah 12:10

THE ROOSTER CROWED

PETER DENIES JESUS

Read Mark 14: 66–72

     After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, "Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean." He began to call down curses on himself, and he swore to them, "I don't know this man you're talking about." Mark 14:70-71 NIV

* * *

     Just a short time before this, Peter had declared to Jesus, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death." (Luke 22:33) Peter had stood up valiantly in the garden by starting a sword fight. But then Jesus healed the soldier's ear, and submitted himself to arrest.

     Jesus said to them, "If you are looking for me, then let these men go." This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: "I have not lost one of those you gave me."   (John 18:8–9; quoting John 17:12)

     Jesus knew all about what Peter would do. He knew that Satan wanted to "sift him like wheat", but Satan could not defeat Peter, because Jesus had said, "I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail."   (Luke 22:32 NKJV)

* * *

     Lord, The moment the rooster crowed had to be the darkest day of Peter's life, but the story told through the years has brought comfort and encouragement to all of us who, like Peter, have experienced failure.

* * *

     …Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times." And he broke down and wept.   Mark 14:72 NIV

GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE

TAKE A SWORD

Read: Luke 22: 35–53

      He said to them, "But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don't have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. Luke 22:36 NIV

* * *

      It has been obvious up to this point that everything the Lord did had a purpose and was part of His Father's plan. Just prior to entering the Garden of Gethsemane for prayer, He gave the apostles specific instruction to sell their cloaks and buy a sword. They must have thought they were preparing to fight for the kingdom. But Jesus had a plan they never could have guessed. They said, "Lord, look, here are two swords." And He said to them, "It is enough." (22:38 NKJV)

      After a night of prayer in the garden; a contingency of soldiers and religious leaders came to arrest Jesus. When Jesus' followers saw what was going to happen, they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?" And one of them (Peter) struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. (22:49–50) What happened next would show everyone that Jesus laid down his life for us — it wasn't taken from Him.

* * *

      Lord, I am unable to comprehend the love that motivated You to give Your only begotten Son to make such a sacrifice. Jesus said, "No more of this!" And He touched the man's ear and healed him. (22:51)

* * *

      "Do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels?"
(Matthew 26:53 NKJV)

THAT THE WORLD MAY KNOW

JESUS PRAYS FOR US

Read: John 17:1–26

      I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began. John 17:4-5 NIV

* * *

      Now Jesus spoke to His Father in the presence of His disciples. He was going to be entering Heaven very soon, restored to the glory He left behind when He became a man. The disciples must have been encouraged when they heard Him tell His Father,

    "I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me." (17:8) "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." (17:15)

* * *

      Lord, I am so thankful that in this prayer You said, "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message." (17:20) As I meditate on this chapter and all the words You said for them and for us - I claim these words for my family:
      "I in them and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me." (17:23)

* * *

     "I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them." John 17:26 NKJV

SCATTERED BUT NOT ALONE

Read John 16:5–33

     "It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you." John 16:7 NKJV

* * *

      The disciples were still trying to grasp what Jesus was telling them. He was preparing them for the frightening, sorrowful days ahead. He said, "Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." (16:22)

      At one point, the men thought they understood; they said, "See, now You are speaking plainly, and using no figure of speech! Now we are sure that You know all things, and have no need that anyone should question You. By this we believe that You came forth from God." (16:29–30)

      Jesus replied, “Do you now believe? Indeed the hour is coming, yes, has now come, that you will be scattered, each to his own, and will leave Me alone…”(16:30-32 NKJV)
      The disciples would indeed be scattered, but they would be gathered again, empowered by the Holy Spirit and made into the foundation of a church that would turn the world upside down.

* * *

      Lord, I see from the lives of these men that I don't have to understand all that You are doing in the world. I just have to trust that You are the Son of God who has taken away my sin, and promised a fruitful, abundant life, by the power of Your Holy Spirit.



* * *

     "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33 NKJV

I AM THE VINE

ABIDE IN ME

Read John 15:1–17

     "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."   John 15:5 NKJV

     These final words of Jesus to His beloved apostles are of utmost importance, both to them and to us. He was going away and they would carry on the work of spreading the gospel to the world. They did not yet have the indwelling Holy Spirit – but soon they would.

     Jesus said, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain…" (15:16) How were they going to be able to accomplish this?

      Jesus said, "…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine…If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you." (15:4, 7)

* * *

 

     Dear Lord, I know that apart from You we will not see lasting fruit in our lives. I come to You this morning as an act of abiding in You. Speak to me from Your Word and plant Your will deep within my heart. I am asking and You have promised that it shall be done. I claim that promise today.

* * *

 

     "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." John 15:11 NKJV

CHRIST IN YOU

LET NOT YOUR HEART BE TROUBLED

Read John 14:1–31

"Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me." John 14:1 NKJV

* * *

     The disciples still did not quite understand the clues Jesus had given of His coming death and resurrection. Thomas questioned Him about where He was going, and would not fully comprehend until after it took place.

     Philip said to Jesus, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us." Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father…" (14:8–9)

     Then He promised, "I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever– the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you." (14:16-17)

* * *

     God the Father would send His Holy Spirit not only to dwell with them, but in them. The Holy Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – all working together to abide in us forever. Thank You Lord for this incomparable truth –"Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:27 NKJV)

* * *

     "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27 NKJV

SCATTERED SHEEP

JESUS PREDICTS PETER'S DENIAL

Read: Luke 22:24-34; Matthew 26:31-35; Mark 14:27-31

      Then Jesus said to them, "All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: 'I will strike the Shepherd, And the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' Matthew 26:31 NKJV (from Zechariah)

* * *

      The prophet Zechariah had predicted this night; Jesus was the Shepherd and his disciples were His sheep. Peter protested, "Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble." (Matthew 26:33) "Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death." Jesus replied, "I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me." (Luke 22:33-34)

      Peter, ever quick to speak, did not know his own heart as well as Jesus did. But even though Peter stumbled, his faith would prevail, and God would restore him in the days to come.

* * *

      Lord, You have said "by grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God."(Ephesians 2:8) We all are made to stumble, just like the apostles who were scattered. But my blessed assurance is that You are praying to the Father on my behalf, that my faith will not fail.

* * *

      The Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you; that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren."  Luke 22:31–32 NKJV

PASSOVER

THE LAST SUPPER

Read Luke 22:1-23

     Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. And He sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat." Luke 22:7-8 NKJV

* * *

     The feast of the Passover celebrated the day when God delivered the Jews from Egypt. The blood of the lamb was placed on the doorposts in the sign of a cross. The wine of the Passover feast represented the blood. On this occasion Jesus said, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you." (22:20) Jesus was the Lamb of God who would take away the sin of the world and give eternal life to all who believe.
     The time had come for Jesus to fulfill the prophesy given at this last supper. Then He said to them, "With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. (22:15) Jesus knew He would suffer, He knew who would betray Him and He knew who would be with Him in His kingdom.

* * *

     Lord, thank you for laying down your life so that we could live eternally in Your presence. One day we will see You face to face and bow down in worship and praise for all You have done for us.

* * *

     And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me." Luke 22:19 NKJV

AS I HAVE DONE TO YOU

JESUS WASHES HIS DISCIPLES FEET

Read John 13:1–17

     Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and--poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet… John 13:3-5 NKJV

* * *

      Jesus knew exactly who He was, where He had come from, and where He was going. In view of His coming crucifixion, how amazing that He does such a loving, comforting act in washing his disciple's feet.

      Peter, also knowing who Christ was said, "Lord, are You washing my feet? You shall never wash my feet!" (13:8a) But Jesus told him that if he did not allow his feet to be washed he would have no part with Him.

      Peter said, "Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!" (13:9) With poignant symbolism, Jesus told him he only needed his feet washed, because the rest of him was already clean, forgiven and eternally secure. Only Judas did not qualify as being so cleansed.

* * *

      Lord, I am so thankful for the daily cleansing You offer as I confess my sins and You are faithful to forgive them. Help me to follow this example of humility toward others, especially in my own family.

* * *

      "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you" John 13:14-15 NKJV

THE TURNING POINT

THE BREAD OF LIFE

Read John 6:22–71

     And Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. John 6:35 NKJV

* * *

      The crowds saw the disciples get into their boat and leave; but Jesus was not with them. They followed the disciples to the other side of the lake, not knowing that Jesus had walked on water to get there.

     This was the dramatic moment when He would reveal to them who He really was, and that He knew who they really were: "I tell you the truth; you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill." (6:26 NIV)

      Then Jesus said, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." (6:51 NIV) This declaration of His coming death was the turning point: From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more.   (6:66 NKJV)

* * *

      Lord, it is hard to believe so many would be willing to benefit from Your miraculous provision, and yet not embrace You as Savior. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sin and for the daily miracle of life which comes from You.

* * *

      Then Jesus said to the twelve, "Do you also want to go away?" But Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life."  John 6:67-68 NKJV

WHY DID YOU DOUBT?

PETER WALKS ON WATER

Read: Matthew 14:22–33

      But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" Matthew 14:30 NKJV

* * *

      Peter was always quick to speak and quick to act; but sometimes he was slow to carry through on his actions. When the disciples realized that the shadowy figure walking on water was Jesus, Peter's first response was, "Lord, if it's you,…tell me to come to you on the water." (14:28 NIV) But as quickly as he jumped overboard and began to walk to Jesus, he realized how strong the wind was, and how large the waves, and he lost his courage. The Lord knew beforehand what Peter would do, and immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" (14:31)

* * *

      For some of us, it is easy to take on more than we can handle. Then when the difficulties come, we are overwhelmed by the "wind and waves." But if the Lord is the One calling us to come, as He called Peter to Him on the water, then He is the One who is going to get us back in the boat. Lord, sometimes I deserve to hear the words you said to Peter, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" (14:31)

* * *

      Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, "Truly You are the Son of God." Matthew 14:33 NKJV

SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN

THE UNFORGIVING SERVANT

Read: Matthew 18:21–35;  Luke 17:3-4

      Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Matthew 18:21 NKJV

* * *

      Peter wanted to do the right thing and He is asking if there are limits to how much of the right thing he must do. Jesus pointed out to the disciples on another occasion that their responsibility involved more than just forgiveness – it also included confrontation.     Forgiveness is not just about feelings, it is about behavior. The forgiving person must care enough about his brother to seek a resolution. There is no place for holding a grudge and never speaking to the person again.
      Jesus said, "If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, 'I repent,' you shall forgive him." (Luke 17:3-4 NKJV)

* * *

      Sometimes our pride keeps us from admitting that a person has hurt or offended us, so we bury our feelings instead of confronting and forgiving. Then later, when a similar incident arises, the buried resentment rears its ugly head and makes the situation even worse.
      Lord, help me to act quickly when reconciliation is needed, and always be ready to forgive. Amen.

* * *

      Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven."  Matthew 18:22 NKJV

BECOME AS LITTLE CHILDREN

 

WHO IS THE GREATEST?

Read Matthew 18:1–14

 

      At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, "Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" Matthew 18:1 NKJV

* * *

      Many of Jesus' followers were expecting Him to set up an earthly kingdom, as promised by the prophets. What they didn't realize was that Jesus was going to gather His subjects over the centuries into a much greater kingdom than they could imagine. Those who would be a part of His kingdom would come in humble obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

      First, the King would be crucified, buried and then raised again the third day. After a time He would go back to His Father in Heaven awaiting the Day of the Lord when He would return ─ a time for which we also are waiting. Who will be great in that kingdom? Jesus said, "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven." (18:3)

* * *

      And so Lord, we will present the gospel to our children with confidence, so that they will believe and be a part of Your eternal kingdom. Thank You Jesus, for reminding us how much You love our children.

* * *

       "Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven." Matthew 18:10 NKJV

JESUS TRANSFIGURED

THIS IS MY BELOVED SON

Read Matthew 17:1–13

      He (Jesus) was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Matthew 17:2–3 NKJV

* * *

      To Peter, James and John, the greatest men who ever lived were Moses and Elijah. For them to see Jesus talking to these renowned heroes further convinced them that He was the Messiah. But they needed to go a step farther in their understanding of who Jesus was. Peter, not knowing what to say, proposed building a tabernacle, one each for Moses, Elijah and Jesus.
      While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!" (17:5) They fell on their faces in fear!

* * *

      Lord Jesus, beloved Son of God, In You, we have access to the very throne of the Father. Help us to live like children of the King, trusting You to lead and guide us every day as You reveal more and more just who You are. Help us to communicate to our generation, and the generation to come, how they too can know the Son of God.

* * *

      Jesus came and touched them and said, "Arise, and do not be afraid." When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.    Matthew 17:7-8 NKJV