THE STORY OF JESUS: Joel 1-3
“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people!”
Earlier Joel had called all people to assemble for repentance (2:16-17)
Their sinful rebellion had resulted in life-destroying consequences.
Now Joel is predicting a time of life being revived, restored, refreshed.
In Genesis 2:7 the Spirit (breath) of God gave life to humanity (Adam).
Once again God’s Spirit will give life to God’s family, and all will be blessed.
Not just a sacred few, but young and old, mothers and infants – all people!
This has always been God’s intent – to restore His whole family.
Jesus comes energized by God’s life-giving Spirit, blessing all people.
Young and old, women and infants, even sinners – this is what got Jesus in trouble!
For “the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off!” (Acts 2:39)
The life-destroying consequences affect all people, the guilty and the innocent.
The life-giving blessing of Jesus is offered to all people, the guilty and innocent.
We baptize all ages to show that God’s life-blessing is for all, not just a few.
Whether “all” accept it is not our decision, that is between God and them.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, Your Spirit has been poured out on all people, yet not all receive it. Help me to realize what it means to have Your Spirit. And help me to help others realize and receive it too!
‘flames have burned up all the trees of the field’
reminds me of the forest fires that created great devastation during this past summer.
It also reminds me of God speaking to His people.
When I look at the land today we have strayed far from His Word
and each is doing what is right in His own eyes
like in the days of Judges.
Yet when we return to Him
repent of our ways
He will restore peace for His people for
for God is a Refuge for His people.
Live for Him!
Call upon the Lord
He is our Refuge.
God is our refuge and our strength,
our ever-present aid,
and therefore, though the earth be moved,
we will not be afraid –
though hills into the seas be cast,
though foaming billows roar,
yea, though the mighty billows shake
the mountains on the shore.