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Living Purposefully Between The Ascension And Pentecost

Pastor Kevin Rutledge - 4/7/2024 10:00 AM

Ever found yourself caught in the quiet anticipation of what's to come, much like the early disciples awaiting the Holy Spirit? Join us as we traverse the sacred space between the Ascension and Pentecost, unearthing the rich lessons of active waiting and the significance of preparation for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. In this compelling episode, we bridge the gap between the Gospel of Mark and the Book of Acts, navigating through the transformative journey of the disciples and directly into the vibrant, sometimes challenging, reality of modern-day Christian living. We're not here to dish out end-time prophecies but to invite you into a space of hopeful expectation and purposeful action.

Have you ever considered the power of hope and its ability to transform fear into action? That's the cornerstone of our discussion, as we confront the anxieties stirred by apocalyptic predictions and uncover the beauty of living each day in Christ's love. We'll dissect the reasons behind the doomsday clock's persistent ticking in popular culture and redirect our focus towards a life of service, kindness, and prayer. By embodying the lessons of the early church, actively seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance, and living as if each day could be our last, we craft a narrative of hope that resonates in our daily walk with Christ. Tune in, and be inspired to treasure each moment as an opportunity to align with God's will.

Scripture:

  • First Reading: Mark 6:7-13
  • Second Reading: Acts 1:1-14
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This Week's Reading Plan

Day: Reading:
Monday The Fate of Judas: Acts 1:15-20
Tuesday The Addition of Matthias: Acts 1:21-26
Wednesday Pentecost and the Holy Spirit: Acts 2:1-13
Thursday Peter Preaches: Acts 2:14-21
Friday Repentance and Baptism: Acts 2:37-42
Saturday Life in the Early Church: Acts 2:43-47
Sunday Peter Heals: Acts 3:1-10

Each podcast episode features portions of our worship service and a deep dive conversation about its themes.

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Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

  • Day 1: Embracing Hopeful Expectation

    Reading: Acts 1:1-8

    Devotional: In the first chapter of Acts, we witness the ascension of Jesus and the instruction He left His disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit. This period of waiting is not passive; it's a time of hopeful expectation and preparation. Today, consider what it means to wait on God actively. Are you anticipating His movement in your life with a spirit of readiness?

    Reflection Question: How can you practice active waiting in your spiritual life, preparing your heart for the work God has for you?

  • Day 2: Anticipating the Divine Breath

    Reading: John 14:25-27

    Devotional: Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter who will teach us all things. In the quiet of the in-between times, we can rest in the peace He provides, not as the world gives, but a peace that transcends understanding. As you read today's passage, reflect on the divine peace and anticipation of the Spirit's work in your life.

    Reflection Question: How does the promise of the Holy Spirit's guidance and comfort change the way you approach uncertain or transitional phases in life?

  • Day 3: The Transformation of Expectation into Purposeful Living

    Reading: James 2:14-17

    Devotional: James reminds us that faith without works is dead. While we wait for the Lord's timing, our expectation is transformed into purposeful action. Serving others and living out our faith are tangible ways we can express our hope in Christ. Think about how you can put your faith into action today.

    Reflection Question: What are some specific ways you can serve those around you as an expression of your faith while you wait on the Lord?

  • Day 4: Active Waiting from Ascension to Pentecost

    Reading: Luke 24:45-53

    Devotional: Before His ascension, Jesus opened the minds of His disciples to understand the Scriptures and promised that they would be clothed with power from on high. This active waiting involves a deep engagement with God's Word and a readiness to move when the Spirit leads. Consider how you are engaging with Scripture and allowing it to prepare you for action.

    Reflection Question: In what ways can you open your heart to a deeper understanding of Scripture, allowing it to equip you for the mission God has for you?

  • Day 5: Cultivating a Life of Service as We Anticipate the Holy Spirit

    Reading: 1 Peter 4:7-11

    Devotional: Peter urges believers to be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of their prayers and to use their gifts to serve one another. In this way, we glorify God through Jesus Christ. As you wait on the Holy Spirit, consider how you are using your gifts in service to the community and in anticipation of the greater work God is preparing to do through you.

    Reflection Question: How can you use your unique gifts and talents to serve others and glorify God as you anticipate the work of the Holy Spirit in your life?

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