Waiting and wondering

For forty days after his death he appeared to them many times in ways that proved beyond doubt that he was alive. They saw him, and he talked with them about the Kingdom of God. And when they came together, he gave them this order: ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift I told you about, the gift my Father promised. John baptised with water, but in a few days you will be baptised with the Holy Spirit.’ (verses 3-5)

Read Acts 1:1-14

I imagine the disciples had butterflies in their stomachs as they waited for the promised gift of the Holy Spirit. What would the Spirit bring? They’d experienced so many extraordinary things already that the possibilities were endless. As they gathered in prayer, they would have known that whatever was coming, it would be good.

Recently I found myself in a tense and uncertain situation of waiting for something. I was armed with little else except God’s promise that he’ll always be there for me and will care for me. The ‘what-nexts’ were innumerable, some quite terrifying, but I trusted that all would be well, whatever happened. There were butterflies in my stomach, but they learnt to dance to the tune of the peace that is far beyond human understanding (Philippians 4:7).

My situation came to a safe and secure ending. The disciples’ waiting came to a glorious and empowering ending (or was it a beginning?). Every time we experience stomach butterflies, we can know that the Holy Spirit is already with us and will bless us with peace and assurance.

When I’m scared and uncertain, Lord, bless me with your peace, and comfort me with the promise that you will care for me. Amen.

by Hanna Schulz, in ‘God’s Peace for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2005)

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