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What Does God Sound Like?
An Excerpt from Speak, My Soul If we are to hear our own soul speak, we Read More
Emma Joy Bushong | Read Acts of the Apostles 2:36-41
The best sermons are the ones we preach to ourselves. Whenever we listen to preachers or read devotionals, we filter the words through our own experiences. We take hold of the narrative and shape the external message to fit our internal monologues. It’s our way of engaging with the words...
God, help us hear your voice within us, and give us the boldness to rely on your word, presence, and wisdom. Amen.
As we consider further the power of Jesus’ resurrection, how should we respond? This is the question posed to Peter in the reading in Acts. Peter’s first instruction is to repent, to change course in our thinking and our living to align more with God’s way. The psalmist proclaims his gratitude to God because God has heard his cry, but the process began with the psalmist’s turning to the Lord. The letter of First Peter states that because we have turned and have faith and hope in God, we ought to love one another deeply from the heart. Luke tells the story of two men who meet Jesus on the road to Emmaus. They recognize him only as he breaks the bread, symbolizing that Christian fellowship is also part of a changed life.
Read Acts 2:14a, 36-41. How might you allow Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection to disrupt your life or your faith? How would such a disruption change you?Read Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19. When have you learned of God’s great joy for you? How do the Psalms remind you that you are beloved?Read 1 Peter 1:17-23. How can you take the author’s advice to “act like someone who knows [you are] loved”?Read Luke 24:13-35. Recall times throughout your life when Jesus has been revealed to you. Which of these encounters have been logical? Which have been supernatural?
Respond by posting a prayer.
