Our oldest granddaughter, Saraí Evangelina Cortez, lifting her hand, for she knows the answer! Do you?
Acts 1: 15-17; 21-26 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (together the crowd numbered about one hundred twenty persons) and said, "Friends, the scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit through David foretold concerning Judas, who became a guide for those who arrested Jesus— for he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry." So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection." So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed and said, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place." And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.
"I want you to be on the ground floor of this new and exciting opportunity!" Have you ever heard that and thought, "That's just too good to be true?" You know the rule that says, If it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn't? Imagine being Barsabbas or Matthias. You would probably know Peter, James, and John; and certainly you heard of Judas Iscariot, but more importantly, you know Jesus. You saw, heard, witnessed and believed all things about Jesus. And then you get the offer: Would you like to join the Twelve? How many of you would have said, Yes, I would!
What sort of invitation have you made to others; keeping in mind that you are a believer and follower of Jesus. What evidence have you shown, spoken, or lived that might attract someone to say, "Yes, I'll have what you have!" This work of invitation is not easy, but we should not attempt it on our own. It is Holy Spirit work and work that the Spirit can do for us if we but ask. It should begin with our prayer life where we say, "Make me an example, a living proof of faith that You live in me and that You have blessed me; and let me draw others to You." And then the opportunity and words will come so that you can share with others about fullness of life in Jesus Christ.
PRAYER: Awesome God of life, fill me with faith and love. Let the joy that I have from You be evident in a contagious, attractive way so that all the world may come to know You. This I pray in the name of Jesus my Lord and Savior, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
