Reflection - Acts 1 (Part 2)

I

May another take his place of leadership - - - Acts 1: 20b (Psalm 109.8)

When one of the leaders fall, he must be relaced to complete the team. In games like basketball, volleyball and soccer, when a player is down or injured, the coach calls that person out and replaces him with a substitute. A substitute however must be able to play as well as those already in the field.

The One who is next in line.

The One who got a point short during the initial selection of the first set of players.

In ministry work, the team must be complete to battle it out. In the case of the disciples, they sought a replacement for Judas to complete the twelve disciples...the power of 12. A biblical model the ministry began adopting since 2006. With one member down, the team is crippled.

II

Then they prayed, " Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen." Acts 1: 24

Three points:

1. The disciples gathered together and prayed

There is power when 2 or 3 are gathered in the name of the Lord.

2. Agreement in prayer and oneness

They all prayed the same prayer. They all longed for the Lord to show them the one to

replace Judas Iscariot. They all acknowledged that only the Lord knows the hearts of men

they are choosing from.

3. Obedience wihtout doubting

After casting the lots, it fell to Matthias, the disciples obeyed. Obedience to God's

prompting without doubting. When the Lord answered their prayer, they obeyed without

questions.

III

In choosing my twelve, i have been lax and chose just anyone because they are the ones available, they were FATS (faithful, available, teachable, submissive)--- or so i thought. I learned that i have to pray for them through my prayers. They are there, waiting for me.

I pray O God you'd open up my eyes, prepare their hearts for the apostolic mission they are to do for You.