Acts 2

In my last reading of Acts 2, I really noticed what it means for the church to be missional. We so often think that it is merely going on trips, like the one to Kentucky I will take my youth on this summer, or to the city mission to serve soup. It is notable how the church added nearly 3000 to it’s number on the day of Pentecost. I think it was the church’s mission, in action.

You see, our friends were “having church” when a lot of people came strolling by. They recognized where the people found their origin and became confused at how they could be understood. You see, the tongue of fire came upon them, the wind blew and all could hear. This made no sense to the passer-bys. So often we, the church, find ourselves in this position. But it gets closer to home…they began to tease them, make jokes. “These men are drunk!” Amusing…it was 9 a.m.

Are you ready? Here is the mission in action. Peter, the Rock upon whom Christ built the church said to them. We aren’t drunk, we are merely worshiping our risen Lord who has sent upon us the Spirit promised in the prophecies of Isaiah. Let me tell you about this Lord. You see, Peter seized the moment to list the groups credentials…Christ. He then proceeded to share His life, death, resurrection. He told them “Our God lives, prophecies are being fulfilled, now just wait until God makes our enemies become our footstool!”

These witnesses did what I would do…they joined in and became a part of the “Jesus movement”. I feel shamed because of the times that I feel embarrassed because a passer by sees me worshiping and laughs. I feel heartbroken about the times that I can share Christ, but don’t because someone just doesn’t understand. Why this insecurity? Peter didn’t seem to mind.

I am embarrassed that I, a part of the church, have done missions…but not been missional.