Read: Acts 1:1-8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. (v. 8)
Some years ago, I had the privilege of teaching a women’s Bible study about the Holy Spirit. Most in the group were in their sixties and had gone to church since childhood. During the second week, a woman raised her hand: “I’ve been in church my whole life, but I’ve never heard a sermon or Bible study about the Holy Spirit as a real person before now. How is this possible?”
In between his resurrection and ascension, Jesus carefully instructed the apostles and told them to “wait for the gift my Father promised” (v. 4 NIV). This was the promised Holy Spirit, their helper, advocate and power as the church was born and a new era of God’s go-mission began. The Holy Spirit was the new way Jesus, as a person, though physically absent, would remain with them, equipping them with everything they needed. “On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you” (John 14:20 NIV).
Jesus has chosen and appointed you and me to “Go!” This happens with the daily presence and power of the promised Holy Spirit. —Linda R. Rubingh
As you pray, ask God for the promised Holy Spirit as your abiding source of power.
About the Author
Linda R. Rubingh is a pastor, therapist, and writer with a passion for mission. She is the co-founder with her husband, Trevor, of New City Kids, and is completing her first children’s book, I Love to Tell the Story: Stories of Meeting Jesus from Every Nation, Tribe and Tongue. Linda is a New Jersey native but now lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with Trevor, their two children, and an overactive Siberian Husky.
