SERMON | Acts 1:6-14 | "Why Are You Looking Up?" by Rev. Joseph Sanford at Grace United Methodist Church in Franklin, Indiana

SERMON | Acts 1:6-14 | "Why Are You Looking Up?" by Rev. Joseph Sanford at Grace United Methodist Church in Franklin, IndianaJesus is about to leave.The work of God through Jesus is complete and now it’s the disciples’ turn.They understand that God is restoring the family of Abraham when Jesus talks about the Holy Spirit.Long ago the people called Israel had seen the Temple destroyed and rebuilt, but they had always felt that God’s presence had not fully returned to them in some way which is why they were holing out hope for their restoration.Jesus claimed he was that restoration—his crucifixion and resurrection would prove it.He must depart so that the Spirit within him might be shared beyond his body and into the collective family of the new Kingdom which the disciples had become and were to grow upon the earth.They were to go into the world and BE the ones through whom God would work.They were to shoulder the work which Jesus had been doing.They were to travel around, identify where they could work, and then offer themselves to do the work.But notice…Jesus tells them they will be empowered to do this work…but first they are to stay put in Jerusalem.They will wait together and be constantly devoting themselves to prayer together.They need to be patient and in conversation.They need to discern and work as one.They need to know what is to be done before they can just do it.So…what do you see in your world that could be done for the purpose of faith, hope, and love?Where is there struggle in your sphere of influence?Where is there a need for reconciliation?Where is there a need for hope?Where is there a need for loving presence?Where is there a need for forgiveness?Where could things be better?God has gifted each of us to see in unique ways.So…look around, friends.Then, pray together and allow your hearts to help you see how God might work through you.Then, go and do—trust in the power of the Holy Spirit.One of my favorite theologians says, “Pray like it’s all up to God. Live like it’s all up to you.”May we pray. May we do. May we continue becoming more like Jesus—here and now.