Guided to Mission

May 27, 2011

VERSE:
The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it."
-- Acts 8:29 tniv

THOUGHT:
As in the previous thought, we are reminded that reaching the
ends of the earth with the Good News of Jesus is the Holy Spirit's
work. Throughout the book of Acts, the Holy Spirit inspires,
convicts, empowers, emboldens, directs, guides, and leads God's
servants in sharing the story of Jesus throughout the world. In the
book of Acts, we learn of four great cities that become the major
touch points for the advancement of the good news. Jerusalem is the
heart of the Jewish faith. Antioch, Ephesus, and Rome are three of
the four largest cities of the world at that time. The other large
city, Alexandria, is not mentioned in Acts. However, the conversion
of the Ethiopian reminds us that the message of God spread to
Africa just as it had throughout the rest of the world. Wherever
Jesus' followers went, they took the message of Jesus (Acts 8:1-3;
11:19-21). The Holy Spirit makes sure Philip, another servant full
of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:1-7), finds the Ethiopian at just the
right place and time (Acts 8:26-40). Let's ask the Holy Spirit to
be at work opening doors to new peoples and cultures for the good
news to spread and let's ask for the Holy Spirit to get the right
people to those who are seeking!

PRAYER:
O God of the nations, please use me in any way you choose to
share the message of Jesus with those who do not know him. I also
pray that you will bless each one of your servants who is seeking
to share Jesus across cultural boundaries. Please make your word
successful through their efforts. Please, dear Father, renew our
world through the movement of the Holy Spirit! In Jesus' name I
pray. Amen.