Monday, January 25, 2010 Reading for the Day: Matthew 1-2; Acts 1-3 Focus on Acts 2
When I read Acts 2, I think about the many times I have travelled to places where English is not the primary language: Mexico, China, Thailand and Cambodia. While I speak enough Spanish to get by in Mexico, the other countries have presented a much greater challenge, because I can't even ask directions or say, "Have you ever heard of Jesus" in their languages. Imagine what it must have been like when people from dozens of countries, who spoke so many different languages were suddenly able to understand the Good News of Jesus in their OWN language! No wonder the folks in the crowd either thought that something strange was going on, or even that the apostles were drunk. What happened made no sense from a human perspective. Everyone there that day--including the apostles--KNEW they couldn't communicate with people from that many nations and backgrounds, but God opened a door by the Holy Spirit. God continues to do that EVERY day. As you finish your readings for today, take a little time and ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit and to give you the opportunity to break through barriers (they may not be language barriers, but barriers of prejudice, or background, or many others)so those around you at school, work, or out in the community will hear God's words in their language. Here's a prayer each of us may offer today:
Heavenly Father, fill me anew with your Holy Spirit that I may communicate the Good News of salvation through Jesus to all I meet. Let my thoughts, words and actions point to You. Use me, as you used the first apostles to tell those around them of Your greatness and salvation. This I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
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