“So repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord [restoring you like a cool wind on a hot day];”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In addition to my regular work load this week, I’m preparing for vacation. While I’m not going to some exotic place, I’m very much looking forward to the time “away.” I’ll be spending my vacation next week volunteering at a place that has long filled my bucket so to speak. The work is not easy, but the people and the mission give me life. I just don’t know how to explain it, but when I leave the site, I always leave excited, refreshed, and full of joy. It makes NO sense!

The particular word used in this passage for “refreshing” is used just this once in the New Testament: anápsyxis, a recovery of breath, figuratively a revival.

When we walk in G-d’s purpose for our lives, we find our “recovery of breath.” It is revival to walk in His ways. It is life to follow Him. Perhaps when I’m anxious or fearful I’m merely walking outside of His will – could it really be that simple?

Father – thank You for the space to serve. Thank You for knitting our hearts with OCC. Make me a blessing wherever I go. You are good and You keep doing good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.

Daily Reading: Acts 1-3
November 16, 2022