Doing What God Asks of Us

Today's reading: Acts 25-28

"...but declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout the countryside of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God and do deeds consistent with repentance." Acts 26 NRSV

Paul has done exactly what Christ commissioned.

As he ascended, Jesus told his disciples what they must do: be witnesses to all that they have seen and heard and to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins. They must begin locally, then move out globally.

Although Paul was not present at the ascension, he has taken Jesus' words quite literally. He began his ministry locally, then moved out into the world, preaching the Jews and Gentiles. He has witnessed to what the power of Jesus did to turn his life around and he calls on others to repent and bear fruit.

I wasn't there at the ascension. I imagine you were not there, either.  Yet, are we doing as Jesus has asked of us?

I am sure we can use the excuse of not being knocked to our knees on the road to Damascus. But can we truly say Jesus has never brought us to our knees? Has Jesus not been trying to get our attention on our own well-traveled roads?

Jesus wants us to begin where we are, with the relationships we have. Preach the good news, people, live the good news. We are given the task to help others turn to God. Once we have begun right where we are, then we can begin to move outward. The main thing is to be spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ!

That is what God asks of us.

God, you ask us to spread the good news of Christ. But we have many good excuses for not doing so. Forgive us, Lord. May we do deeds consistent with our repentance. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims