email : Webview : Duane Brooks - Every Day with Jesus

May 16, 2018

Ephesians 4:7-8

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:“When he ascended on high,
he took many captives
and gave gifts to his people.”

New International Version (NIV)

                 Ascension Day slipped by last week. You may have missed it. Come to think of it, not one person asked me, “So what are you doing for Ascension Day?” Not like Easter, or Christmas or even some of the secular holidays. What difference does it really make?

                Paul has an answer for that question.   Christ’s ascension preceded and prepared for Pentecost which we celebrate this Sunday. The Holy Spirit did not come in response to the readiness of God’s people, but in response to Christ’s ascension. When he ascended . . . he gave gifts to the people. Best of all God gave the gift of himself, the Holy Spirit, at Pentecost.

                What difference does it make? Paul explains in 4:11-16 that God gave the spiritual gifts of leadership to equip all of us for the work of ministry so that we might reach unity and maturity in love. The God who fills all things wants to fill us with his Spirit so that we may grow up in Christ. All the unity, maturity and ministry which God wants to give to his people began with the gift of the Holy Spirit, who came when Jesus ascended. Have you opened your gift?

Pray with me:

Father, we worship you today in the power of your Holy Spirit remembering that Jesus who descended to earth has returned to take his rightful place at your right hand. Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for Jesus who ever lives to intercede for us. We pray in his name, who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.

This year we focus our Every Day with Jesus readings on Jesus’ story. With references to Tallowood's Read Through the Bible in 2018 daily reading plan, let's focus our undivided attention on Jesus and follow where he lead. He will not fail. Neither will we!
Joyfully,
Duane

Manage your preferences | Opt out using TrueRemove™
Got this as a forward? Sign up to receive our future emails.
View this email online.

555 Tallowood Road
Houston, TX | 77024 US

This email was sent to .
To continue receiving our emails, add us to your address book.