JUNE 3
"...And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ You are witnesses of all these things. “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” - Jesus in Luke 24:45-49 (NLT)
June is a power packed month with strong energy promising much joy and accomplishment. Or as Saint Hildegard said about June, "You are enfolded in the weaving of divine mysteries. You redden like the dawn and You burn: flame of the Sun." Certainly we can all anticipate the coming Summer sunshine with much expectation and excitement. Yet while hoping for warmth, some of us are not yet ready to engage in many summer activities such as plunging into the currently cold water of chilly lakes. The wise wait awhile until Summer fully emerges before immersing themselves in the icy spring water of nearby oceans or deep ponds. Waiting for the right time can be vital. Timing is everything in both our physical and spiritual lives.
Jesus in today's scripture is giving similar wise advice about "waiting" to his disciples just before his physical body leaves this earth and he ascends to heaven. He warns his followers to "stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” In other words, Jesus is telling his excited disciples who want to run around everywhere sharing the Good News of Christ's resurrection that they are to wait until they receive the power only his gift of the Holy Spirit can bring. This "power" or dudamis in NT Greek is a dynamic expression giving us the word "dynamite". It is translated as "power, might, strength". Jesus warns disciples throughout time in this scripture to wait, prepare, and pray before taking on more than we are able to sustain. Above all, don't try to do it all yourself. Seek the gift Jesus offers you of the Holy Spirit he calls "mighty Counselor, Comforter, Advocate, and Guide"(Jn.14:25-27). This power packed Holy Spirit is a friend who will never leave or forsake you and can give you more strength and power than you can ever imagine.
Prayer: Jesus, Thank you for sending me the gift of the Holy Spirit. May I seek until I find the power you have promised. Amen
Meditation For The Day: Seek a Holy Spirit. Other Sprits deceive.
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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