More From Linawati Santoso

Acts 2 tells us about Pentecost, when the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. The people were amazed because each one heard their own language being spoken. Perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?” (v. 12). But some made fun of them and said they must be drunk. Peter knew that was the time for him to speak up, so he stood and told people what had happened. Without a plan, Peter preached and spoke about Jesus. When the people heard Peter’s message, they were cut to the heart. Peter explained that if they repented and were baptized in the name of Jesus, their sins would be forgiven. Then they would receive the Holy Spirit. It was a simple message that was accepted by many. Acts 2:41 says: “About three thousand were added to their number that day.” 

One lesson I learn from this scripture is that we all should do our best for our part, then God will do the rest. Our part is to teach and to tell people about Jesus. We do not need to be eloquent, we only need a heart that loves Jesus. We plant the seed, we water it, and God makes it grow (see 1 Cor. 3:6). Even though our message may be simple, it will bless the people who hear it.

I remember a time when I preached and made a difference. I participated in a daily virtual morning prayer meeting.  Early each morning, we would meet for 30 minutes to praise and worship God, then listen to a sermon or share our experience with God. Everyone would take turns serving as the praise and worship leader and bringing a sermon. When it was my turn to bring the sermon, I spoke about the Lord as a Good Shepherd. I brought Psalm 23 as a devotional. As David said: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me” (Ps. 23:4, NIV). Then I shared my experience of how God helped me as I walked through darkest valley in my life. It was a very simple message! But when I finished, one of my friends said: “I am blessed, Lina.” I was happy to hear that. I was happy my life could be a blessing for others.

I thank God for every opportunity I have had to serve God. Thank you also for the opportunity to write in The Upper Room. I love to take Paul as an example. He said: “If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me” (Phil. 1:22).

Thank you. God bless us all.