SUNDAY, January 16
Acts 1.12-13a
“Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city. When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying.”
Luke tells us after the angels’ encouragement and seeing Jesus’ ascension, the apostles returned to the upper room. The word used for return is a New Testament word used and repeated by Luke is his gospel and history. Mary returned after her time with Elizabeth (Luke 1.56) The shepherds returned from seeing the newborn Christ, glorifying and praise God (2.20). After his baptism, Jesus returned from the Jordan where he would be tempted (4.1) and return to Galilee afterwards in the power of the Holy Spirit (4.14). Now the disciples are making their own return journey after spending 40 days with Jesus to a season of waiting together.
Way to Worship
Like Luke, we need to recognize those moments of needed return. It would be easy to stay with Elizabeth and the comfort of family, but the time comes we need to return to the life before us, pregnant with purpose. How much easier it would seem for Jesus to be baptized and head out into world-changing ministry, instead he returns from Jordan to the wilderness to be tested. Jesus set the example for his disciples of worship, trusting the Spirit and waiting for His leading.
Suggested Song:
Cry in My Heart by Starfield (with Spanish subtitles)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkdhumH-4gE
Way to Wait
How do you need God to lift you up today? Lift up your voice to God again, reflecting on the two papers from the last two days where Christ is speaking transformation over your life and restoration over your concerns. Hold them together again before the Lord.
Now, how is God calling you to return? Is He calling you to return to recognize the wilderness around you that He will use for His glory? Close your eyes and listen to the song once more.