And then...

by Jon Hathorn on April 13, 2020

"Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them " Acts 4:8

Today is Monday, yesterday was Easter. And as you know, Saturday was the day before Easter and Good Friday was before that. Not exactly a genius when I write those words. Bu did you capture the words of the verse up above, "Then Peter, filled with Holy Spirit...." You will easily read my enthusiasm in these next couple sentences. The goal isn't to prepare for Easter Dinner, attend an online service and then put your decorations back into a box until next year. The main goal wasn't even to simply have a nice meal. The goal of Friday was much more than to make it to Saturday, and the goal of Saturday wasn't simply to make it to Sunday. And the goal of Sunday was much more than for it to be over. The thought is "AND THEN." Check out Peter's next step. He is full of the Holy Spirit and he is going to share the good news, he is going to make a difference. He is a different person because of the resurrection. I hope you stop and think - "because of the resurrection - what's different." I have been blessed by God and too can be a blessing. God is transforming us and that is exciting.

About the Author

Jon Hathorn

As I child, I really wanted God to like me and I feared that I wasn't good enough for Him. During high school, I attended church camp. It was there that I realized I was sinner in need of God's grace. I prayed to God, admitting my sin, accepting His death on the cross for my sin, and asking Him to guide my life. I have lived here in Stockton all my life graduating from Delta and UOP, and eventually getting a Master's in Bible and Theology. It was during a mission trip that I met Bev, who became my wife, Our two daughters were born right here in Stockton. I have served the Lord locally in a couple of churches and as a high school Bible Teacher. I love encouraging other people, sharing the Word of God, watching sports, eating Mexican food and spaghetti, spending time with our family and going on walks with our grandson. Philippians 1:6 is the prayer of my life and it says, "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ."