Ps. Albert Ng
Sep 6, 20203 min
Reading: Acts 4
People who are "in between normals" are more in touch with their inner world. The uncertainty outside paradoxically helps them to look inside. They know the true anchor can only be found deep in their own heart.
"What do I really believe? How can I experience my faith in a deeper way?"
You sense a gap deep in your spirit, a longing deep in your heart. The "make me feel good" faith is no longer appealing. You are tired of the mediocre. You want the real thing.
And you know it's going to take both hard work and heart-work.
1. The Power of Resurrection
In our last reading, we encountered a "man who was lame from birth." Apostle Peter miraculously healed him in the name of Jesus! Nothing is impossible for God!
Today, however, we learn that the religious leaders were not happy. They challenged Peter,
"By what power or what name did you do this?” (4:7)
Great question! I want to know too!
What was the real source behind their powerful spiritual experience? How come their faith seems so real?
Meanwhile at the early Church...
“With great power, the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all …” (4:33).
Here we are! "God's grace" to meet their needs; and "great power" to overcome the challenges in life!
They "live out" their faith. I want the same too!
But what is the source behind such power and grace?
" ... as they testify to the resurrection of Jesus."
This is the missing part for so many Christians.
There are 2 things that kept us mediocre -- sin and death! But look at how Jesus' resurrection defeated them!
a. Power over death
The power of resurrection defeated death! We are no longer under the dark power of Satan! We do not need to follow Satan's dark path anymore!
b. Grace over sin
The grace from resurrection brings forgiveness. God no longer counts our sins against us. And "sin shall not be your master." (Romans 6:14)
That means, we do not need to sin anymore. (Read this line 2 more times.)
You are a "new person". The "old you" has gone, the "new you" is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17)
My friend, You are created for something better!
2. From the Inside Out
I started to feel that the time of "in between normal" can be a blessing in disguise. The sense of restlessness, the unpredictability of the future, together with a heightened sense of urgency created the perfect vacuum that forces us to examine our heart.
Perhaps God is trying to surface out our "sin and death" so that the "power and grace" can be released in our lives.
Reflection:
Are there any residuals of "sin" or "Satan's dark path" that are still following us? How can I experience God's power and grace in a deeper way?
Prayer for today:
Dear God,
My heart longs for a deeper relationship with you. I know there is more to it. You have already given me the resurrection power to live out my faith. But I confess that there is still something that I hold on to. And I know it is hindering me from experiencing you. God, please work in my heart and help me to let go of those that don't honour you. I want to live out power and grace in my life.
In Jesus' name. Amen.