June 13
Bible Reading: Acts 3:17-20
Acts 3:19-20, “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.”
When you think about refreshment you probably have in mind a cold drink on a hot day, but that’s not the connotation of the term as Peter used it. The same term, “refreshing,” is used in 2 Timothy 1:16 to describe how Onesiphorus refreshed the imprisoned Paul by his presence. One can imagine how much Paul appreciated Onesiphorus’ kindness and comfort, especially in the context of the hardships he was enduring. This is the general meaning of the term as Peter used it, promising the repentant “times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord” (Acts 3:20).
Jesus had felt compassion for the common folks of that day because they were “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). The Romans taxed and oppressed folks and the religious leaders were less concerned about the people and more concerned about holding on to their power and wealth. The recent crucifixion and death of Jesus had worked to stir up much trouble. Life was hard. Nothing came easy. And there was little reason to suppose that things might change.
But Jesus had come with an offer of rest for the souls of those who “labor and are heaving laden” (Matthew 11:28). Now, Jesus, having ascended to heaven, following His death for sins and resurrection, stood ready to provide that promised rest to those who believed. Noteworthy regarding these “times of refreshing,” is the fact that they transcend what any human or circumstance could ever hope to provide, for they run soul deep. Such times are likewise also availed to us, in Jesus, no matter our circumstances. Note also that these come from “the presence of the Lord.” It is one thing to order a tall, iced tea from a barista behind a counter. It is quite another to be refreshed by Jesus Himself in the midst of any and every kind of situation or circumstance.
We sometimes yearn to escape from the burdens and troubles of the world. The thought of standing beside some beautiful river, casting a lure for some unsuspecting trout, comes to my mind. But it’s good to keep in mind that Jesus, the “Shepherd and Overseer” of our souls (1 Peter 2:25), has promised to provide rest for our souls, no matter how wearisome the affairs of this world or how troublesome the steps of our journey.
It is one thing to order a tall, iced tea from a barista behind a counter. It is quite another to be refreshed by Jesus Himself in the midst of any and every kind of situation or circumstance.
JESUS, I AM RESTING, RESTING
Jesus, I am resting, resting
in the joy of what thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
of thy loving heart.
Thou hast bid me gaze upon thee,
as thy beauty fills my soul,
for by thy transforming power,
thou hast made me whole.
Refrain:
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
in the joy of what thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
of thy loving heart.
O how great thy lovingkindness,
vaster, broader than the sea!
O how marvelous thy goodness
lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in thee, Beloved,
know what wealth of grace is thine,
know thy certainty of promise
and have made it mine. [Refrain]
Simply trusting thee, Lord Jesus,
I behold thee as thou art,
and thy love, so pure, so changeless,
satisfies my heart;
satisfies its deepest longings,
meets, supplies its ev’ry need,
compasseth me round with blessings:
thine is love indeed. [Refrain]
Ever lift thy face upon me
as I work and wait for thee;
resting ‘neath thy smile, Lord Jesus,
earth’s dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father’s glory,
sunshine of my Father’s face,
keep me ever trusting, resting,
fill me with thy grace. [Refrain]
LookingtoJesus 