Choose JoySample

DAY 44 - GREAT JOY IN THE CITY

Reflection: One of the great lessons for the church in Acts is don't let a river become a dam. As much as we are in awe of the first church in Jerusalem - thousands coming to Jesus, Holy Spirit outpouring, miracles, healing, fear of God, unity, compassion, devotion to the word - these good things were not meant to be contained.

Even as Peter and others were coming to terms with how this good news kingdom was meant to grow and spread, political events forced the issue. Stephen was stoned to death, a 'great persecution' and scattering occurred (Acts 8:1), and Saul appeared to be destroying the church (Acts 8:4).

But far from being destroyed, the church was on the move and continues to this day. One of the seven newly appointed deacons, Philip, escapes Jerusalem to the loathed Samaritans - no doubt a great place to hide from angry Jewish authorities.

But rather than hide, Philip continues to share what he has seen, heard, and experienced of the living Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. He proclaims the Messiah to a people who, although shunned by the Jews, still held out hope that a coming Messiah would restore them.

Alongside his message of Jesus the Messiah, we see the Spirit of God at work through Philip in several ways - signs, impure spirits coming out of people, paralysed and lame healed. We know he also baptised many in the name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 8:16).

A fleeing deacon with nothing but the good news of Jesus and the Spirit's presence transformed a city such that there was 'great joy'. Imagine what it is like for a whole city to be set alight with joy because of the reality of God's goodness. If it happened then, it can happen today.

Choose joy: Don't let your circumstances limit your perspective of what God can do. Pray for great joy through Jesus for your city today, and find a way to be the Philip it needs!