God's Bestowal, The Way

God's Exceptional Choice  We are God's Artwork Christ is Wisdom Live in the light of God (Isaiah 2:5)  Acts 20:26-35 The Message 25-27 "And so this is goodbye. You're not going to see me again, nor I you, you whom I have gone among for so long proclaiming the news of God's inaugurated kingdom. I've done my best for you, given you my all, held back nothing of God's will for you. 28 "Now it's up to you. Be on your toes—both for yourselves and your congregation of sheep. The Holy Spirit has put you in charge of these people—God's people they are—to guard and protect them. God himself thought they were worth dying for. 29-31 "I know that as soon as I'm gone, vicious wolves are going to show up and rip into this flock, men from your very own ranks twisting words so as to seduce disciples into following them instead of Jesus. So stay awake and keep up your guard. Remember those three years I kept at it with you, never letting up, pouring my heart out with you, one after another. 32 "Now I'm turning you over to God, our marvelous God whose gracious Word can make you into what he wants you to be and give you everything you could need in this community of holy friends. 33-35 "I've never, as you so well know, had any taste for wealth or fashion. With these bare hands I took care of my own basic needs and those who worked with me. In everything I've done, I have demonstrated to you how necessary it is to work on behalf of the weak and not exploit them. You'll not likely go wrong here if you keep remembering that our Master said, 'You're far happier giving than getting.'" For Reflection Paul releases the disciples whom he has nurtured to do the work of establishing the church. In turning them over to God, Paul shows confidence in them. He encourages them by reinforcing God's presence in their lives and their willingness to give their lives to God. God will provide all the support the disciples need to work on behalf of the weak. The Holy Spirit has selected you to be protected messengers of the Word.   Pray Pray prayers of thanksgiving in accepting God's call. Accept God,s grace given freely through the Holy Spirit. Pray and remember that the Holy Spirit will provide for you. The Holy Spirit has got your back, Pray and embrace the spirit of God's bestowal. Pray, "I place my life in your hands." Forward to a friend Sign up for our mailing list!