Clever Free Methodist

We have recently gone through Holy Week, Easter (resurrection) and the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven. What could be our next celebration?   Oh, that is right! The fulfillment of prophecy about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit! Foretold in Joel 2:28-29 we are told,  “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.” Jesus had recently ascended back into Heaven and now the disciples had been keenly focused on prayer and seeking God for the course ahead. They were still on a mission as they were quick in looking for a replacement for Judas. The lots were cast and Matthias was chosen as the newest Disciple to join their ranks (Acts 1:20-26). They had been busy and had done a lot of work so time to take a break and celebrate. After all, it was time for one of their Jewish feast day

There is one, concise statement of faith that appears in both the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed that states we believe Jesus ascended back into Heaven. We believe “He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.” It is hard to believe that one of the most significant moments in Jesus’ life is scarcely recognized in the Protestant churches today. Maybe it is time for us to join with our Amish and Roman Catholic brothers and sisters who recognize the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ as a holy day of obligation.  A “day of obligation” is somewhat like a holiday where the faithful are expected to attend services, observe rest from work and recreation, and reflect on the meaning of the event memorialized.   Jesus accomplished a lot in forty-four days! Instituted the “New Covenant,” was crucified, buried and then rose from the dead. Then for forty-days, He appeared to many and spent even more time with His Disciples before ascending back to

Here in Minnesota, it is not only Mother’s Day this weekend, but the opening of the fishing season. This is not only a beloved pastime, but a sacred tradition in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” Needles to say, many are heading out on the water and gathering along the banks. We, as Christians, have been called to fishing. Jesus invites us to join Him on the world’s greatest fishing expeditions of all time….fishing for people. Mark 1:16-20 is the Gospel story that unfolds along the shores of the Sea of Galilee where Jesus comes upon Simon and Andrew casting their nets into the water to begin their day of fishing. We are not sure how long Jesus stood there watching before engaging the two brothers in conversation, but He broke His silence by saying, in verse 17 , “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” They must have gotten the message and knew exactly what he meant, because their response in verse 18 , was, “they immediately left their nets and followed him.”