Devotion #2: The Long Run
“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 men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” Acts 1:21-22
A lot happened in 50 days. Jesus was celebrated in His Triumphal Entry, but then arrested, beaten, and crucified. The disciples deserted Him, including betrayal, denial, suicide, and hiding. While all looked doomed, Jesus rose again! He was alive and spent almost six weeks on a victory tour giving many proofs that He was alive and God’s plan was in place. Once He had fulfilled His tour, He ascended back home to Heaven.
It was now time for the disciples to get to work. They felt one of their first assignments was to fill the spot Judas vacated. They looked for someone who was more of a marathon runner than a sprinter. They wanted someone who had been consistent and present during the three and a half years of Jesus’ public ministry.
There is a lot to be said for faithfulness. Paul lists several qualifications for a spiritual leader (Elder, Pastor) in his letter to Timothy. In 1 Timothy 3:6, we read, “He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.” The parable of the sower and the seed in Matthew chapter 13 warns of those who receive the Gospel or Word but quickly fall away.
The disciples wanted someone who had passed the test of time. They looked for someone who had experienced Jesus firsthand, from His baptism through His teachings, and to the empty tomb. In thick and thin, they walked with Jesus. They were there for the highs and the lows.
Too often, people think salvation is the finish line. They accept Jesus as their Savior, but do not realize the need to grow in their faith.
Are you intentional in growing in your spiritual journey? It does not happen accidentally by being stagnant. Choose to spend time daily reading the Word of God, praying, and pausing to listen to the Lord. Follow through by attending weekly Gatherings in person, participating in a Growth Community, and finding ways to serve.
Please do not settle for a fruitless life. Strive forward. Focus on growth. Look to be more submissive to God’s will today than you were yesterday. Set goals and include others so you can help them and they can keep you accountable. Together we are better, but that does not mean we ignore the regular private appointments we set with God.