Good morning! Today we will begin our reading in the book of Acts. The book of Acts follows the gospels (e.g., Matthew Mark, Luke and John) and gives us a look at the Apostles (disciples) in the period following Christ’s death, resurrection and appearance to the disciples. This book is split into two sections – the start of the early church and then Paul’s conversion and missionary journeys.Join me as we read the account written by Luke.

BIBLE VERSE – Acts 1:1-5
“¹ In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach ² until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit. ³ During the forty days after he suffered and died, he appeared to the apostles from time to time, and he proved to them in many ways that he was actually alive. And he talked to them about the Kingdom of God.

⁴ Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. ⁵ John baptized withwater, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

RECAP
Luke’s introduction of the book of Acts gives us a brief recap of what he wrote in the book of Luke. He continued the account of Jesus and His ministry on earth. To help us recap, I want to revisit Luke 24:44-49 (NLT):

⁴⁴ Then he said, “When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled.” ⁴⁵ Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.  ⁴⁶ 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. ⁴⁷ 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.’  ⁴⁸ You are witnesses of all these things.

⁴⁹ “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.”

REFLECTION
Sisters and brothers, the gospel message hasn’t changed. Throughout the gospels  we learn that through Christ Jesus ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ No matter our background, brokenness, crime, etc., there is forgiveness of sins for all who repent. In Acts we will continue to learn about the Holy Spirit, the church – our part as the church, acts of forgiveness, and numerous people coming to faith in Christ Jesus.

Today, if you feel or express sincere regret or remorse about a wrong doing or sin these verses today remind us of our Savior and Lord who came so that we may be forgiven and saved.

Today is the day to ask the Lord for forgiveness and turn a way from any wrong doing, to help you with unforgiveness that is blocking your relationship with Him. Ask the Lord, for forgiveness and for His strength to turn a way from whatever it is.

PRAYER
Father God, there is so much to learn about you and your love for us. Thank you for making a way for us to understand your word and teachings to us. Lord, we desire a personal relationship with you. We want to experience more of your love every day. Lord, we desire for you to fulfill your purpose in our lives. Lord, forgive us for the wrongdoings and/or sins we committed (known and unknown). Help us to see what You are doing in our lives. And Lord, when we can’t see give us wisdom and discernment to be obedient to what you have called us to. Direct our steps. Don’t let us become complacent in doing nothing or not growing spiritually or mentally. Lord, activate your Holy Spirit within us. Help us to forgive as you forgave. In Jesus name, amen.

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