HONOR AND AUTHORITY
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
When the Lord Jesus had finished talking with them, he was taken up into heaven and sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand. And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs.
Mark 16:19-20 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
The gospel of Mark concludes with a wrap up of Jesus’ earthly ministry and transition to His new ministry in heaven as High Priest and Advocate for His people (check out Hebrews 7-10 and 1 John 2:1-3). Mark points out that Jesus has “sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” This is not only a place of honor but a place of authority. Jesus is now in the place of highest honor and authority. Immediately after Jesus’ ascension to heaven Mark explains what happened next on earth. He tells us, “The disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs.” This is Mark’s quick overview of what we can read about in the book of Acts. Jesus had told them that when the Holy Spirit came on them, they would receive power and would be His witnesses. This empowerment was not just for the original disciples, it is available to anyone who puts their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. I believe that God wants to work in us and through us to grow His kingdom around the world. Sometimes miracles are obvious—but more often they may not seem to be so obvious. In the past three days Cindy and I have had two wonderful encounters with total strangers that the Holy Spirit brought into our lives. People that were simply open to a conversation that led to a prayer moment not in a church building but in very public sittings. Each time I believe the Holy Spirit directed our conversation and prayer. It is amazing that when we make ourselves available, we don’t have to be weird or crazy, just sensitive to the Holy Spirit as He nudges us to start conversations. Those conversations can lead to spiritual discussions that open doors for changed lives. Jesus is working through every believer who is willing to allow the Holy Spirit to speak to and through them.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit please help me to be open to You and Your directions in my life. Help me to see people the way You see them.
“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”