Tuesday, March 19
Acts 2:14-24
In today’s reading, Peter is addressing the crowds in Jerusalem immediately following the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. Peter reminds the people of Jesus's promises, as well as what was prophesied by Joel, in which God says He will pour forth His Spirit on all mankind; that our sons and daughters shall prophesy, that our young men shall see visions, and our old men shall dream, dreams. (Joel 2:28 – 32)
A few years back, our family was going through a season of loss. My wife, Tabitha, lost her grandmother and I also lost my aunt. One night, as I was sleeping, God gave me this poem in a dream. I could sense God’s presence in my sadness, and these words kept flooding my mind. I was suddenly awakened from my sleep and was prompted by the Holy Spirit to write them down. This poem has been a blessing to me and my family ever since and brings me peace, comfort, and encouragement when I think of all those who have gone on before us and our cheering us on, as they wait for us to come home.
Don’t cry or be sad, my time here is done; Rejoice with me, for my new life’s begun
Wipe the tears from your eyes, I’m in a much better place; God’s shown me His mercy, forgiveness, and grace
No fear and no pain, the worries no more; At peace now and resting on God’s golden shore
I wish you could see it, I wish you were here; Unimaginable beauty, so be of good cheer
I’m in the presence of Jesus, with family and friends; I have hope everlasting, and joy without end
So put your faith and trust, in God’s only Son; And you’ll be here too, when your time has come
Life is so fleeting, it’s fading away; Don’t put off to tomorrow, what needs done today
Make the most of your life, with the time you have left; So you can stand in His presence, without any regret
May your life reflect Christ, in all that you do; May people see Jesus, when they look upon you
Remember death isn’t final, this life’s not the end; It’s just the beginning, I’ll see you again
When it’s your time to go, you won’t be alone; I’ll be here waiting, to welcome you home
I was reminded this Lenten season that anytime we have an encounter with the Holy Spirit, regardless of how personal it may seem, God never intends for us to keep any of His good gifts to ourselves, but to share them freely with others, as a witness and encouragement of His faithfulness in our lives!
What encounter with the Holy Spirit have you experienced that needs to be shared with others?
Who is the Holy Spirit bringing to your mind today that needs to hear your story?
Jon Martin