Morning Message: April 30

Jesus’ disciples were not always received with a welcome.  In some towns they were persecuted and punished for speaking about Jesus and his message.

A reading from the Acts of the Apostles.
The high priest and all who were with him, being filled with jealousy, arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison.  The high priest questioned them, saying, “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name.”  But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than any human authority.”  They were enraged and wanted to kill them.  Then Gamaliel said to them, “Fellow Israelites, I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone.”  They were convinced by him, and when they had called in the apostles, they had them flogged.  Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.  As they left the council, the apostles rejoiced that they were considered worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name.  And every day in the temple and at home they did not cease to teach and proclaim Jesus as the Messiah.

Think about this silently in your heart.  Pray to be strong and courageous in your faith.
In today’s reading God does a mighty work to spread the Gospel. As the apostles heal the sick and preach God’s truth, the religious leaders of Jerusalem become extremely jealous. Threatened by the apostles, they had them thrown into prison. Prison would not stop the Gospel from spreading though. The apostles wanted to be obedient to Christ rather than man. They remained faithful witnesses of Jesus.

Holy God, some people do not respect or love you.  But may we stay strong in our faith and be witnesses to your love for everyone.  We ask this in Christ’s name.  Amen.

Boys and girls, today is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day.  If any of you have adopted a shelter pet, ask your parents to take a picture of you with your pet and send them to Mrs. Hilmer at [email protected] .  We would love to post pictures of all the rescued animals that are lucky enough to have a second chance in life…and teachers, that includes you as well.

Have a wonderful day!