Do you remember your first day at school? I experienced fear of the unknown, lack of confidence and being unsure of what lay ahead.  I was shy and scared on my own and everyone looked bigger than me. Yet after a while I felt more confident around the classroom with my teacher and I made friends. The fear went and for the first time I felt more comfortable. As time went by what I learnt and I used it enhanced my ability to deal with every situation.

Acts 2:1-13

I believe it was just like that for the apostles on Pentecost Sunday. Gathered together in a room unsure of what to do now Jesus had gone they felt uncertain. However when they became filled with the Holy Spirit they were prepared to take risks and able to do things beyond their comprehension, e.g. speak in foreign languages without learning them first. Imagine if we could do that.

They proclaimed that Jesus was indeed the Son of God and through his resurrection was the way to eternal life. Through such a proclamation they were placing their own lives in jeopardy. Yet for the first time people were hearing about eternal salvation.

Like with our learning we have a choice to listen to the word of God, hence increasing our life choices which gives greater meaning and purpose to our lives.

You Will Be My Witnesses” Luke 24:48

This was the challenge that Jesus gave his disciples before he ascended into heaven.

I often agree to do something for someone else without realising the implications of what I have agreed to.  The disciples possibly had no understanding that proclaiming the message of salvation that began in Jerusalem is now heard by Christians throughout the world today.

I now reflect on how I may have had an impact on others through my work and in my relationships without realising the implications I may have had on their lives. It is important to be has a Christian that my life and my actions witness the message that Jesus first proclaimed of salvation. In other words through a faith in God we can make the impossible, possible.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives.”

For me when I reflect on what peace means I think about being in harmony both in my relationships with others and the world around me.

Peace begins with my family by creating harmony through both my words and actions. Making sure that I think before I ask someone to do something or if I offer suggestions that involve change expect feedback. It is always important to evaluate your interactions with others and be positive to ensure your relationships are healthy and open.

The most important point I would argue is to consider that no situation is hopeless. By being persistent and never giving up I have always believed is the catalyst for change. This is the peace that Jesus gave us the faith to believe that we are agents of change.