Redemption — Scripture Reflection #030
Acts 8:1 (New Living Translation)
8:1 … A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria.
Have you ever looked back on a particular time in your life and wished you could erase it or change it? I know I can. And I bet the apostles wished the same.
The group of them had a pretty low moment during the arrest, trial, and execution of Jesus: Instead of staying by their teacher through hell or high water like they said they would, they all deserted Him. They likely felt ashamed of their fear-fueled desertion and desperately wished they could go back and change their actions, or make things right in some way. While they could not hop back in time to right their wrongs, Jesus met them with gentle grace and forgiveness upon His resurrection.
The apostles soon got their chance at redemption when the budding church was met with fierce persecution from the opposing religious leaders. While all the other believers scattered, the apostles were reported to stay where the storm was thickest. There, they were able to do great work for the growing church and live out Jesus’ calling for them.
The Point: The same grace and forgiveness given to the apostles is offered to us, too. By God’s power, we can find redemption to move beyond our past failures and into God’s calling for us. Is there any instance in your life that you need to accept God’s grace over?
