Resurrection to Mission: Living the Ancient FaithSample

Day 3: From Celebration to Commission

Why are we here today? We have just celebrated Pentecost, which was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and now enter the Apostles’ Fast, a season deeply rooted in the early Church and uniquely Coptic. Our purpose is clear: to reflect on how the Resurrection and Pentecost are not mere historical events but realities to be lived.

Pentecost is not an isolated event, but the culmination of our journey through Lent, Holy Week, the Resurrection, and Ascension - a season of transformation that leads us here, to the outpouring of the Spirit and the beginning of true change.

How do we move from celebration to commission, from being spectators to active participants in God’s mission?

“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 NKJV)

The danger is treating Pentecost as a liturgical memory rather than a daily fire. The Apostles’ Fast is our invitation to carry Pentecost’s flame into everyday life.

St. John Chrysostom in his Homily XV on Matthew writes: “You are the light of the world…The light of Christians cannot be hidden, a lamp shining so brightly cannot be hidden.” Similarly, the Church was not made for herself, but for the world. She is a lamp, not to be hidden, but to give light to all. That is our calling - to burn so brightly with the fire of the Holy Spirit, so zealously, that others see Christ in us and come to know the risen Lord and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

The Coptic Orthodox Church, forged in persecution, embodies this truth. We are called not to hide our light, but to shine Christ’s hope, love, and truth in a broken and hurt world. People so desperately want peace, want to love and to be loved - Christ offers this to them and more, but only that we would respond with, “Here am I! Send me.” (Isaiah 6:8 NKJV)

The answer lies not in grand gestures but in daily faithfulness at home, work, and in our communities. The same Holy Spirit who empowered the apostles is ready to empower us.

Reflection: As we begin the Apostle’s Fast, let’s ask ourselves: What does it mean to be “sent” in my context? How can I live the Pentecost’s fire today? How can you move from being a spectator to a participant in God’s mission? What is one way you can be a witness this week? The mission continues. Will you take your place?

Today’s Challenge: Reach out to someone in your church or community and ask how you can pray for them or support them in their walk with Christ. Be a participant, not just a spectator.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, make me a lamp that shines Your light to the world. Remove any fear or complacency from my heart. Help me to be a true witness, bringing Your hope and unity wherever I go. Amen.