The ACTS of the Holy Spirit

I'm studying the book of Acts right now in my devotional time. I have been struck by the humility demonstrated by Jesus' disciples in the early Church. There must have been a tremendous fear and confusion that came upon those present in Acts 1 when Jesus made it clear that He was not restoring the Kingdom to Israel at that time. What a whirlwind for these folks - they followed the Messiah only to see him executed. Then, He is resurrected and spends 40 more days with them teaching about the Kingdom. Their comments in Acts 1 make it clear they were still thinking an earthly kingdom. Now, to top it all off, Jesus leaves!

Jesus' instructions to his followers were simple. Wait. Stay in Jerusalem and wait for the Father's Promise - the Holy Spirit. The angels find them staring up into the clouds where Jesus had gone. The disciples must have been confused and afraid. I wonder how many times I have been guilty of being overwhelmed, confused, and afraid as if I were simply staring up into the clouds. I think this is how many of Jesus' followers spend our lives. These first disciples were consoled by the angels' message that Jesus would return in the same way He left.

So, Jesus' ragtag group of followers did as He instructed them - went back to Jerusalem and waited. What were they doing for 10 days in the Upper Room? They waited and prayed. Their actions after Pentecost make it clear that their lives were not their own anymore. They had humbly denied themselves and were willing to die for Christ's Kingdom.

It seems to have gone something like this. In response to God's great love for them in Christ (God always takes the initiative with us), they surrendered (denied self, emptied self). Upon surrendering (kenosis), they were filled with the Holy Spirit. With the empowerment of the Spirit, they were bold witnesses everywhere. In other words, having surrendered to God's love/mercy/grace they become Christ's ambassadors in the world through the power of the Holy Spirit. This seems to be the summary of the book of Acts and is precisely what Jesus said would happen when the Holy Spirit came upon them (Acts 1:8).

Although this book is referred to as the Acts of the Apostles, it seems it is really about the Acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles as they lived out surrendered lives (kenosis) as Jesus' ambassadors. I long to live this boldly in obedient love. Lord Jesus, I have experienced Your love and mercy in life-changing ways. I surrender to You today and deny myself of all that is my agenda and all that I feel "entitled" to. Please fill me with Your Spirit that I might live with the "mind" of Christ in my home today and with everyone I see. I wait for You now - fill me for Your Kingdom and for Your Glory!