Now: Word Ambassadors: Prayers and Poetry

Reading: Acts 2:16

“No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel:”

‘Do you remember when…’ are often words leading into stories around campfires and holidays when friends and family gather. And some reply to the proclamations as ‘that didn’t happen’, or ‘you’re imagining it.’ Or perhaps, a special circumstance is brought back from memories with a deep sigh and results in joy. Or a bit of sorrow that a dream didn’t get fulfilled.

And often we still take that same attitude into our present lives. It’s too late. That is meant for someone else—not me. I no longer care. I’ve had too many disappointments to try again. It’s just another false promise.

Not only are we ourselves in the hand of the Lord, but all that surrounds us. Our times make up a kind of atmosphere of existence; and all this is under diving arrangement. We dwell within the palm of God's hand. C.H. Spurgeon made this comment based on Psalm 31:15, “My times are in Thy hand”, noting that we are never apart from God and, “Storms and calms vary the seasons at the divine appointment.”

Peter reminded his audience that the words of the prophet Joel were meant for now. In their own time they were the recipients of the almost forgotten prophecies. Hear the words again he said; listen to the promise.

When John the Baptist began his ministry he reminded his listeners of Isaiah’s words, “Make ready the way of the Lord.”  Jesus began His first sermon with Isaiah’s words of prophecy, The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He anointed Me..”.

The promises were spoken in the past, but the time is now.

Lord, please keep us from wandering away from Your plans and visions You once ignited in our hearts and dreams. Give us clarity to recognize the ones we do need to let go of if Your Spirit  says no, but also give us courage to grasp those still ahead, and especially those we need to remember right now regardless of the atmosphere  surrounding us.

Psalm of Worship: Genesis 1:16

“God made the two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night—and the stars.”