On this Seventh Sunday of Easter (the last Sunday before Pentecost!), we will read from the Acts of the Apostles. We will hear the Christian community discuss and pray to God for guidance in how to best replace the position of leadership left open after the betrayal of Judas Iscariot. Prayer is an important factor in the community's decision, and we will explore how we can use prayer as a way to hear God's guiding voice in the decisions of our lives.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Acts of the Apostles. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Acts 1:15-17, 21-26).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
In order to have some context for the Scripture reading of our reflection, it is suggested that you begin by reading Acts 1:1-14. Link is (HERE).
The Scripture says that the followers of Jesus were all devoting themselves to prayer in the days following Jesus' ascension to heaven - what do you imagine they were praying about, and if you were in the room with them, what would you be praying about in these first days after Jesus' departure from your group?
Read the Scripture lesson for today, and reflect on the process of praying and trusting God to help choose the person to fill the spot left open by Judas' betrayal.
After reading the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, reflect on the need to restore the "community of disciples" to twelve, and why the number twelve was important to the early group of Jesus' followers. Why do you think Justus and Matthias were never mentioned in Scripture again?
After reading the "WHERE..." paragraph, reflect on your experience of selecting or volunteering for leadership positions in the church today. How does our process of selecting leaders in the Christian community leave room for God's Spirit?
After reading the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on how your daily prayers give you insights into God's voice in your decision making choices throughout your life. How can each of us improve how we listen to God in our daily decisions?
Ignatius of Loyola is well known for establishing practices of prayer called "The Daily Examen" that helped to open one's mind and heart to the movements of the Spirit in your life, which helped to bring God's voice into our daily lives. If you are interested in exploring more about this process, please follow the link: (HERE).
