A“In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The crucifixion saga was over. Jesus had died and risen. The story of His life was complete. He was ready to leave. What now?

Did the disciples think that Jesus would carry on as usual…walk with them…teach them…and continue His campaign of ushering in God’s kingdom? They waited for the next phase…and it came with terrifying reality. He was going, not staying, as they hoped! How were they ever to continue where He left off?

Impossible, but for one thing…one instruction…one promise…one hope! Wait! Wait…for the next chapter. 

In one sentence, Jesus reminded them of John’s words…”You will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”  This, the culmination of all that had happened since they had met Him and followed Him. God was at work… to a perfect timetable and an eternal plan. 

Luke, a Gentile, a doctor…was chosen, in the Holy Spirit’s hand, to write a thoroughly researched and accurate record of Jesus at work through His Spirit. The Holy Spirit…who accompanied Jesus throughout His life, enabled Him to die an atoning death, and raised Him to life again…was coming…on them…to enable them to “be” Jesus to the world. 

They trusted Jesus’ promise. Why shouldn’t they? He had done everything He had said He would do…and they knew they were powerless without Him.  

What did they do while they waited…did they sit with folded hands and stare at the sky? No way! They worshipped! They praised! They celebrated with joy! They prayed! No matter how long it took, they were glad and waited with eager anticipation for what was to come. 

They had no idea of what lay ahead for them. Jesus had warned them of trouble…persecution…suffering…rejection. Their lives would follow the pattern of their Master. They would face trials and tests. Their faith would be stretched to the limit…but, like Jesus, the Holy Spirit in them would cushion them against all harm. Jesus would always be right there in the person of “His other self”. 

His peace would guard their hearts and minds from fear. His grace would provide the strength they needed to take the blows and not crumple. His presence would guarantee a sure outcome. His Word would be the sword and the seed to guarantee their victory.  

So…they waited…and the Spirit came…on time…just as Jesus had promised…unmistakable…unforgettable…in wind and fire!

To be continued