One Desire Fast is HMCC’s annual fast so we can start off the year hearing from God, both individually and as a church. This year’s theme is Simple Pursuit.
John 14:26 ESV “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
After Jesus’ resurrection, Jesus ascended to heaven and promised His disciples a Helper – the Holy Spirit. This promise was not just a consolation for their impending loss; it was a profound gift that would empower them for the mission ahead. Even in Jesus’ physical absence, He promised that the Holy Spirit would come to teach them and remind them of His words.
The same Holy Spirit empowers us on a regular basis, transforming our lives and enabling us to live boldly for Jesus. Let’s ponder: Have you ever experienced moments when you spoke with unexpected wisdom? Have you ever found yourself trying to love someone hard to love? Have there been times when you suddenly thought of a friend and felt compelled to reach out to them? What about a time when you felt prompted to take a step of faith and do things that you normally wouldn’t do?
These are some examples of the Holy Spirit’s work in your life. All believers have the potential to experience empowerment from the Holy Spirit, so don’t be discouraged if you cannot relate with the examples given yet. The Holy Spirit gives us wisdom and encouragement in our personal pursuits of God and our calling to love others (e.g., giving us the fruit of the Spirit), and He also empowers us to take part in the church ministry to spread the Gospel to the lost (e.g., at Pentecost when the disciples are sent out to share the good news of Jesus). When we are empowered by the Holy Spirit, there is a greater vision we’re striving towards beyond our individual pursuits.
When we do not leave space for us to receive the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, obeying God’s commands in the Bible can seem very complicated. It’s impossible for us to conjure the wisdom, perspective, and awareness needed to live the life exemplified by Jesus. When we truly believe in the potency of the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, we can strive towards the mission God has given us to share the Gospel and make disciples with joy and lightness. How has the Holy Spirit empowered you at the start of this year? It might be to love those around you, to share the Gospel with a specific coworker or classmate, or to contribute to a project with your gifts and talents. As a church, we are looking ahead to CityServe and Easter in April. Are there one or two people who God is putting on your heart to pray for and invite? As we fast, let’s ask God to open our eyes to opportunities for service and connection, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in our interactions. Together, let’s step out in faith, trusting that we are empowered to make a difference in the lives of those around us.
Reflection and Application
- What are some burdens or callings that sit within you that would need the Holy Spirit’s empowerment?
- Take this quiz to discover your spiritual gifts. How can you apply your spiritual gifts to bless someone else?
- Pray and dream with God: What are some things that you hope to see in your campus or Hong Kong this coming year?
Prayer Requests – Latitude
- A more comprehensive understanding and undeniable experiences of Jesus through community.
- A disciple-making movement in our community to see every generation grow to become more like Jesus.
- A heart and passion for God to work in schools and for youth to be transformed by the gospel across Hong Kong.
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