Good News That Sends Us

Scripture Reading: Acts 1:1–11

Hope That Becomes Witness

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; 

and you will be my witnesses.” 

Acts 1:8

The risen Jesus leads His disciples to the edge of departure—not to abandon them, but to commission them. Acts opens with continuity: the same Jesus who lived, suffered, died, and rose now ascends in glory. His leaving is not an ending; it is a turning point. The disciples are caught between heaven and earth, gazing upward, until they are gently redirected. The question is not where Jesus has gone, but what they are now to do. Advent reminds us that hope is never static—it always moves us forward.

The angels’ words are a loving interruption: “Why do you stand here looking into the sky?” Faith cannot remain fixed on longing alone. The promise of Christ’s return does not excuse passivity; it creates purpose. Jesus entrusts His ongoing work to ordinary people, promising the power of the Holy Spirit. Hope becomes witness when waiting turns into obedience, when expectation gives way to faithful presence in the world as it is.

The good news is not meant to be stored—it is meant to be lived and shared. Advent hope sends us back into our neighborhoods, workplaces, friendships, and responsibilities, carrying the life of Christ with us. We wait for His coming by joining His mission—loving, serving, speaking, and living as witnesses to the risen Lord. The One who ascended is the same One who goes with us, until He comes again.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for entrusting Your mission to us. As we wait in hope, give us courage to live as Your witnesses. Fill us with Your Spirit, turn our longing into faithful action, and send us into the world with joy, purpose, and love. Amen.