Read Acts 12:20‐25 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?



     Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they came to him in a body; and after winning over Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for a reconciliation, because their country depended on the king’s country for food. 21On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat on the platform, and delivered a public address to them. 22The people kept shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a mortal!” 23And immediately, because he had not given the glory to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. 24But the word of God continued to advance and gain adherents. 25Then after completing their mission Barnabas and Saul returned to Jerusalem and brought with them John, whose other name was Mark.


Reflect

Ironically, the fate of King Herod and the word of God move in opposite directions. How do you understand power?


In verse 24 we have another reference to growth. Why does growth seem so important?


Is there one who you would consider to be your mission companion (a Paul to your Barnabas or a Barnabus to your Paul, etc)? If not, describe your ideal mission companion…the one who would complement your strengths.

Respond


If you have a ministry companion, call them today and determine what you will do together to advance the mission of God today.


If you do not have a ministry companion, ask God to reveal whom God has in mind.


Pray for your District Superintendent and the churches and faith communities in your district so that they might start and spread more Holy Spirit fires.


Day 48: Friday, June 10 Acts 13:1‐3


Begin with the prayer for guidance and discernment you wrote on Sunday.


Read Acts 13:1‐3 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?


     Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the ruler, and Saul. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.


Reflect


What is the work to which you have been called?


What is the benefit of adding fasting to praying?


Barnabas and Saul are sent off. Do you and your congregation think of yourselves as been sent into the world?


Respond


Set a reminder alarm to go off each hour. When the alarm rings, remind yourself that you have been sent by Christ into the particular situation you find yourself in.


Pray for the members of Annual Conference that they will experience and be responsive to a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and a wildfire spread of God’s reign.