In this week’s reading, the Risen Christ ascends into heaven (Acts 1:1-11). His followers are assured that the spirit will empower them to be witnesses throughout the earth. The disciples were told to not gaze up into heaven to look for Jesus; we find his presence among us as we proclaim the word and share the Easter feast. We, too, long for the Spirit to enliven our faith and invigorate our mission.
The call on my life by the Spirit to proclaim the word and share the gospel came most intensely for me personally about 7 years ago. God sought a depth from me that would be a challenge. God had urged me to attend a 4-year seminary level Christian leadership class on theology.
I know what you’re thinking. I read the Bible all the time. This will be like a really amazing Bible study! If that was what you are thinking, then I commend you for your enthusiasm, and will admit I had it as well.
The first few months of class felt like a whirlwind of information, homework, reading, more reading, and then more reading, but in another language. God had called me to it. I prayed, so I knew he’d bring me through it.
The COVID pandemic created a huge lapse in my school schedule. Thankfully, I have about 6 months left. Once I graduate, I will have 32 credits of seminary level training. I am more assured that the Spirit has empowered me to be a witness through the earth.
The disciples were told not to gaze up to the heavens to look for Jesus because we find his presence among us as we proclaim his word. WE DO! In every way, in every day, this is true.
The ability to tap into this doesn’t require years of seminary training. It is a gift each and every one of us has at our disposal. We are mighty tools in his toolbox that is created for him, by him, and of him.
This Easter Season lets us step up and step out in faith. It lets us be bold and spread the message. And, if you are given a challenge, remember it may change your life.
Jana