The
Disciples had spent nearly three years with Jesus. Side by side with the
Messiah, hearing and learning all that He taught. Just what were they to do
with the information they had? What were they to do with the knowledge? I’m
sure they were confused. Not knowing what their future held.
Suddenly,
Jesus was back. But only on occasion. So this group still didn’t know exactly
what to do.
Some
went back to what they knew. Back to their life before Jesus. John 21 tells of such
a circumstance. The fishermen of the group were fishing when Jesus presented
Himself to them. They had breakfast and Jesus gave Peter instructions. “Feed my sheep” and “Follow me.” But these instructions were vague. Peter’s questions
probably continued, uncertain to how he was to follow the instructions.
Then
Jesus gave the Disciples further instruction in Acts 1. “On one occasion, while he (Jesus) was eating with them, he gave this this command: “Do not leave
Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me
speak about.” (Acts 1:4 – NIV)
Now
the Disciples had to wait. In Jerusalem. For a gift. And that they did. Perhaps
they were still a little foggy on what their future role in the Kingdom would
be, but they knew by following Jesus’ commands, they were being obedient to
their Master.
And
wait they did. But they were busy. They replaced Judas with Matthias (Acts
1:12-26). We also see in Luke 24:53 (NIV), “And
they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.”
The
Disciples knew God wasn’t finished with them yet, they just didn’t know how He
was going to use them.
I kind
of know how the Disciples felt. I’ve spoken the words, “It’s over.” My service
trip to SE Asia is over. But now what?
What
am I to do now? What does God want me to do with all the information I’ve
learned and the knowledge I’ve gained? The same questions that the Disciples
had.
My
SE Asia team and I are all back to old routines. Back to our way of life before
the trip. Meetings, family life, group gatherings, writing. Nothing seems to
have changed, and yet I am changed. Perhaps some of the
same feeling the Disciples felt.
So
really, now what?
I believe
I can do exactly what the Disciples did.
I can wait.
This
is probably the hardest part of this plan. But if I look at it with
anticipation, the wait will be more exciting. There will be unexpected
revelations along the way and I will be able to see God through it all. And isn’t
that worth the wait?
I can stay connected at church.
The
Disciples “stayed continually” at their church. I don’t think that is feasible,
but I do believe any time spent in God’s house and with His people is time well
spent. These connections allow me to share my journey and keep my experiences
fresh in my mind. And of course, listening to Scripture, worshipping God and hearing
God’s message proclaimed will allow me to stay in tune with God’s leading.
I can praise God.
This
is an easy one. Remember the old tune, “Blessed
Assurance?”[i]
The chorus states, “This is my story. This is my song. Praising my Savior all
the day long.” How privileged I am to be able to praise God all day long!
I
know for certain that God will show up at just the right moment and say, “Now…this
is what I want you to do.” I cannot wait for that moment!
If
you are going through a similar situation, take a look at the steps listed
above. Implement them into your life. Know that God is with you through it all
and He does have a plan. You need to be obedient and patient. He will come
through.
Of
course, we know how God used Peter and the other Disciples. After the Holy
Spirit fell upon them, great messages were spoken. The Church was established.
Gentiles were invited into the Kingdom. And their efforts were substantially
magnified because God was in the middle of it.
I
don’t know if God will use my service trip to this degree, but I do believe He
isn’t finished yet. There is much to process. There is much to share. There is
much for God to be part of. And when God is in the middle of it, there is no
telling what the outcome will be.
Grace
and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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