Summer of the Spirit

Today’s devotional was written by Julie Mitchell. The photo is of the Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center, symbolizing restoration and renewal.

Acts 3:19-20 tells us to “repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus.”

Simply stated, the Holy Spirit makes all things new in “times of refreshing.”  Quite literally, we are renewed, revived, and restored in spirit through repentance. God’s purpose for our lives is to be in harmony with him and each other.  Peter’s invitation is for each of us, for First Church, and for the world…. to experience a refreshing when we repent and embrace the forgiveness and acceptance of God. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit restores all things.

Think of a time when the power of the Holy Spirit restored your brokenness.  How were you healed?

In which relationship in your life do you currently need to ask for repentance?  What is one way to work towards rebuilding this relationship?