June 8, 2021 - Acts 1:9-26

As a senior in high school, I had an idea that I wanted to teach! I was allowed to go to the elementary school every week for a semester and work in a classroom. I do not remember the grade, but it was both exciting and boring at the same time. After that semester I knew teaching in the public school was not in the future for me. I still desire to teach, but preaching is a passion and the alternative setting of the church fits better for my personality.

Peter was a student (disciple) of the Lord and had sat under the Lord’s teachings for three years. As he watched the master teacher ascend into the clouds that day, he and the others gathered there stood gazing into the sky when an angel suddenly appeared. Perhaps the disciples were anxious, perplexed, or saddened by His departure but regardless, the Lord had a Comforter to assist them at that moment.

Peter then took the prominent role upon returning to Jerusalem and displayed obedience to the Lord’s directives to wait, pray and prepare for the enduement of power that had been promised. While gathered, Peter shared the scriptures and began to instruct the crowd for the need to add a new apostle. He presented the scriptural grounds for Judas’ downfall and then the requirements for his replacement (vv. 15-22). Prayer and voting followed and Matthias was selected.

In the midst of waiting, we often wonder what we can do to be constructive yet submissive. Peter helps to show us that prayer and preparation go together and the Lord used that time to instruct and organize the people for the upcoming flurry of activity with the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Perhaps the Lord has you in a holding pattern and you are waiting for His next move in your life. Be sure that you do as the Lord commands, but also search His word, take steps of preparation and be organized for His next step!