February 21, 2008 - Acts 4:33

“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all.” Acts 4:33.
Because of their decision to pray for boldness and to not shrink back, the early believers spoke out about Jesus, even though they risked potential arrest and suffering. And yet, great power was given them, as they testified to God’s raising of Jesus from the dead. This verse concludes by saying that “much grace was upon them all.” The previous verse refers to the giving, generous nature of this community. They shared their possessions and sold their property, and shared it all in common with those in need. Is it any wonder that they desired to give away the “great power” of Jesus that they had so freely received? No wonder they experienced “much grace!”
As I sit here and write, I am struck by how ordinary these people were, and yet, how extraordinary their circumstances had become because of the “great power” and “much grace” that had been given them. Were they really much different than you or me? Fishermen, tax collectors, home-makers – they came from various, yet normal backgrounds within their culture. Doesn’t that sound like us? And yet, they were dramatically different. What seems to be extraordinary is that they were reliant on the One who exhibited great power – the One who raised Jesus from the dead. And He was the one who gave them all the grace that they needed.
Questions to consider: Are you really that much different than these early believers? Do you need “great power” and “much grace” in your life? Where is its source, and how can you receive it?
Prayer: Father, please help me to be aware of the “great power” and “much grace” in my life, and help me to be willing to do whatever it takes to receive it from Your hand and, then, to give it away to others. Amen.