Monday, April 17, 2023
I retired a few months ago, and I've been asking “Now what?” a lot! Contemplating this question, I realize I’ve been here before: work, graduation, marriage, babies, divorce, and moving away. The list is endless. Think about the times you scratched your head and asked, “Now What?”
Have you ever asked this when it comes to your faith life? This too is a journey and can leave us wondering at times.
Imagine what it was like for the people who actually knew Jesus—the ones he chose to carry his message, who followed him, learned from him, and witnessed his death, burial, and resurrection. Was their “Now what?” different from ours?
Acts 1:6-8
6 So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?” 7 He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Friends, I have good news! The same power Jesus promised to the disciples is available to us today! We are all called to introduce others to the life-changing adventure with Jesus. When we step into our purpose, he equips us.
Ephesians 4:11-12
11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
Look up the definitions for apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher. You have been given a gift. Discover it. Receive it. Use it. Jesus has promised to empower you to use the gifts you’ve been given to spread his message, to build his kingdom for his glory. Thanks to modern technology, there are more avenues than ever to spread the Word with people around the world. You will experience God’s power when you step into your purpose.
Questions:
What is the next step you need to take on the life-changing adventure Jesus has for you?
Next Steps:
Text ‘Resource’ to 419-419-0707 to receive some ideas for your next step. Attend GrowthTrack and discover your purpose. If you’ve already completed GrowthTrack, join the Dream Team or find a Group.
Prayer:
Father, help me fully grasp the sacrifice you made for me on that cross. Give me the courage to discover my gifts and to step into the role you have for me in your kingdom. Empower me to share my story with others so they can join us in the life-changing adventure Jesus offers. In his name, amen.