I imagine the disciples were disappointed in Jesus’ response to their request for “more” faith. They may have wondered if their puny faith would be enough, in the end. In light of their actions at Jesus’ arrest, we may wonder ourselves. Although that faith seemed to fail them at the foot of the cross, it was still enough for God to work through. In their expectant waiting in the upper room, they were able to receive the power of the Holy Spirit. They became bold preachers and apostles, stepping into an unknown future in faith, through which God was able to do some pretty amazing things.
Jesus trusted that the fragile faith of his disciples would be enough for God to work through. It still is enough. When we are able to sit in the expectation and simply receive the grace and power that God will pour out in us, the Holy Spirit will enable us to trust God’s promise in our lives, and will empower us to live boldly as Jesus’ disciples – no matter what the year brings.
This message is excerpted from “Weightlifting and the mustard seed” by Cheryl M. Peterson in the January/February 2021 Gather magazine. Today is the 17th Sunday after Pentecost.
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