Verse
Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of anyone, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
Thought
After Jesus’ resurrection, he reminds his closest followers of three gifts he is leaving with them, all of which find their origin and functional power in the presence of the Holy Spirit. The gifts are: peace through presence, purpose in mission, and power to forgive. As we look at the power of the Holy Spirit, which of these gifts are you not living out in your daily life? Why not take advantage of all three! Make a specific commitment to live out the Spirit’s work in your life by making sure you take advantage of each of these gifts this next week!
Prayer
Father, forgive me, and forgive us your people and change us into a community of grace where your Spirit brings peace, sends us out on mission, and uses us to bring forgiveness and reconciliation. As we do these things, O God, I know we are living out the life of Jesus in our world. It is in his name that I pray. Amen.
Devotional provided by Heartlight®
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