(from the May 2024 Christogram)
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it” (John 14:12-14).
On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out upon Christ’s church in an unmistakable way: “And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:2-4 ESV). Jesus promised his disciples that they would do the works that he does, indeed, greater works than he does (John 14:12). Note that Jesus is speaking about “whoever believes in me,” not just the Apostles or pastors. What are these greater works? Jesus reveals in John 5:36 “…For the works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness about me that the Father has sent me.” (ESV) “All of Jesus’ works, including His miracles, attest to His identity, that people may know Him, trust in Him, and thereby be saved” (The Lutheran Study Bible, pg. 1790). Before Easter, and before Pentecost, Jesus’ works and words were largely obscured and hidden; even his disciples didn’t “get it.” Now, the proclamation of Jesus’ identity, of Jesus’ desire to seek and save the lost, and of Jesus’ victory over sin, death, and the power of the devil are proclaimed by all believers, empowered and guided by the Holy Spirit. The key? Prayer. “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it” (John 14:13-14). May the Lord lead us to be people of prayer. May the Lord lead us to do “greater works!”
“O LORD, I call upon you; hasten to me!
Give ear to my voice when I call to you!
Let my prayer be counted as incense before you,
and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice!” (Psalm 142:1-2).
Thank you to those on our prayer team! If you would like to be better equipped to be a prayer warrior, please contact Rita Czanko. She has developed wonderful resources to aid the intentionality of our prayer.
The last Sunday that the choir will sing is May 19th. Please join me in thanking the choir for the wonderful year of lifting voices to the Lord. Please also join me in thanking Elena Miraztchiyska for her excellent leadership.
Pastor Chris
