The joy God gives
Acts 1:4~5 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (4~5)
Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #95 I''d Rather Have Jesus (#82 in previous version)
Even though the Early Church members would have faced death had they gathered together, they gathered at Mark’s upper room, staking their lives. Though they had no strength having been accused of being a heresy, they were able to experience the mystery of God being with them when they prayed together in one heart. Their circumstance was the worst but because they believed anything was possible if God did the work, they were not afraid. If you enjoy the true joy that God gives, you will be thankful even in front of death. Where does that joy come from?
1. The joy of the one who has seen
The forces of darkness that plow into people’s empty hearts and built up the Tower of Babel through the strength of lies pretend they are giving good things, only to destroy people’s lives. Is it acceptable for children of God to wander like slaves of the world? People who have had a taste of the Gospel have the strength to save the weak, receive answers, and overflow with joy as they enjoy Jesus Christ governing over their lives, unseen to their eyes.
2. The joy of the one who has
For problems to come to me indicates that these results have come because I am not equipped with the basics. Only seeing the illusion, being unable to see personal problems, distancing themselves from people, they try to find joy elsewhere. If you are not able to enjoy the joy that God gives, you cannot handle the work that God desires. Conversely, if you have the things that God has given, you can enjoy true joy.
3. The joy of the one who shares
What I must examine is ‘Am I receiving grace? Am I disbelieving?’ If you want to receive grace, during the time of worship, do not try to listen for the sermon that fits you, but try to listen for the voice of God. When you hear the voice of God, you can enjoy the sincere joy that the Early Church believers enjoyed. Wherever the people of the Gospel go, the forces of darkness will break and idols will be crumbled down. We must get a taste of the special joy that is given to those who relay the Gospel.
- Those who listen to the voice of God can enjoy the joy of God. Try meditating on what the true joy of your life is. Especially meditate on the joy of those who have seen, those who have, and those who relay. 70 Worker Training Message 2011.12.27