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Unstoppable! 'New, but Connected' — Acts 1:1-2 Tuesday, January 2, 2024 In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit. — Acts 1:1-2 NLT Key Thought In Acts, Luke began his account of Jesus' early followers by connecting that account to Jesus' ministry through the Holy Spirit. The storyline that followed was new, but it was also connected. When the Lord "was taken up to heaven" from his disciples, he wasn't abandoning them. He subsequently gave them instructions through the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit who was active in Jesus' conception, was present at his baptism, and was powerfully at work in his ministry would be at work in them as well. Jesus' followers would have an unstoppable message because the Spirit that empowered Jesus would empower them! TODAY'S PRAYER Father, I am so thankful that, as your child, your Holy Spirit lives in me. I know that the Spirit is heavenly proof that I am your child.^ I believe the Holy Spirit connects me with Jesus and empowers me to live for him and become more like him. O Holy Spirit, enable me to live out Jesus' mission in my world. Make me bold as I share his message with others. I ask this in Jesus' name and for his glory. Amen. ^ Romans 8:16 RELATED SCRIPTURE READINGS Luke 24:44-53 1 Timothy 3:16