The End ?
Reading Acts together has stoked my passion in a unique way. Through this digital devotion I’ve learned a lot about the Holy Spirit, early Christ followers, myself, and many of you. The last chapter of Acts has an abrupt ending because it’s hard to write the conclusion to a story that is not finished. I am challenged by the realization that the responsibility of the church has been passed to our generation. What do you think could be said about us if the Lord delays His coming 2000 more years.
Prayerfully, we would be known as followers who stood against the world. And we will be an inspiration to those who succeed us. Paul is a great example for all of us. Thank you for leading us through the book of Acts. There are so many inspirational passages in this book. I have never read the entire book of Acts before. I am INSPIRED.
We have made great strides in becoming socially responsive again. In some ways, we are not as irresponsible with the Word of God. Past generations have used it as a weapon to oppress. We are challenged to use the Word of God as it was intended-a weapon to survive. We are moving away from an institution of religion and becoming a community of believers. I don’t think we are as rigid and authenticity has finally found its place in many of our churches. We are fortunate that we can count on leaders who are innovative when presenting principles that are thousands of years old. Worship is off the hook and I like that we can wear jeans. One thing remains the same though, saving souls is the goal.
Reflecting on what would be said about me personally in 2000 years, previous to these last few months, Acts inspired me to not be a typical lazy American Christian churchgoer. Turn myself from the distractions of this world and focus solely on the spiritual and why I’m really here.
I started writing, but it turned into a really long soap box.
But in essence I think that feelings would be mixed about us, because even today we spend too much time separating our Christian lives (Sunday) from our non-Christian lives (Mon – Sat) instead of just being a Christian (mistakes and all) the entire time.
What a thought! Jeremy gave me a copy of Velvet Elvis, which I’ve been reading. A lot of what I’ve read answered some of my deepest questions, like the mercy of God in stark contrast to much of the old testament.
I think so many people get caught up in when’s the world gonna end? Is whoever the antichrist? Who cares! If it does would He be with us any less? How many of us have added a cubit to our stature by worry? Worries that times are getting worse gives us a call to action, not lying down. This picture is one of fresh christianity, of something that is not stuffy or restrictive, but beautiful and free and alive, demanding our engagement.