Acts 1:4-8
On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But 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.” Acts 1:4-8 (NIV)
This feels like a teaser. You know when the tv show or movie teases at something coming up with a brief image or a few words of what’s coming but ambiguous enough to create a guessing game. I’ll date myself here but think the tv show, Dallas and the season ending episode of “Who Shot JR?” It was all anyone could talk about – and talk about it they did.
It’s a much more common story trope now than I recall or maybe I’m just more aware of it when I see it.
Could these verses in Acts be another cliffhanger? Jesus tells the disciples they’re not to leave Jerusalem, they will be baptized with the Holy Spirit but when they ask if Jesus will ‘restore the kingdom’ Jesus says it’s not for them to know.
Maybe that’s what faith is – one big cliffhanger. Act as if it’ll happen but not absolutely positive of what comes next. It reminds me of Hebrews 11:1 - “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (NIV)
The disciples hoped for Israel to be restored and were assured the Holy Spirit would come upon them.
Questions for Reflection:
- What do you hope for?
- Where do you find assurance?
- Have you felt the Holy Spirit move you?
Prayer:
Lord, I continue to hope in You and remain assured of Your presence and grace. Help me move as the Holy Spirit directs. Amen.
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