Merciful Monday: I'm a Living Witness!

Have you ever been a witness to anything like a robbery, a car accident, or child abuse? You may have had to go to court or give a sworn statement. Witnessing vile things such as these can be scary. But did you know that the greatest thing you can witness is the power of God?

Today’s reading from Luke talks about how the people of the Bible days physically witnessed the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It describes their reactions to hearing about or seeing him alive after watching him die three days earlier. Luke 24:37 says, “But the whole group was startled and frightened, thinking they were seeing a ghost!”

Later, Jesus described in his purpose on earth to the disciples in just a few words saying, “It was written a long time ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations beginning in Jerusalem: There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent. You are witnesses of these things. And now I will send the Holy Spirit just as my Father promised” (46-49).

We never physically witnessed The Messiah lay hands on someone and heal them, nor did we witness his crucifixion and resurrection like those who were living while he walked the earth. Yet we still witness his power through the Holy Spirit. The bible says, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8).

Today's Prayer: Dear God, help me to be aware of your power within me and around me. I don't want to be like the disciples whose “hearts were filled with doubt” at the sight of Jesus, but help me to recognize your acts and be a living witness to your power! In Jesus' name I pray. Amen!

Merciful Mondays: Jael