Acts 2:38, 41, "Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.' Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day."

Think

"God can use anybody – even when they feel like a nobody – to be somebody that can influence everybody!" It is a common misconception that once we've messed up, we can no longer be used by God. In fact, many of us think that our disobedience disqualifies us. But today's passage shows us that the opposite is true. Jesus can and will use anyone who's willing to rely on his power rather than their own. This week, we have been reflecting on the roller coaster ride of Peter's faith journey. We've learned that despite Peter's ‘three-peat' rejection of Jesus and his wavering faith, Jesus found him fishing, called out to him, and with a loving heart reminded him that his purpose hadn't changed. He was still a fisher of men! Through Peter, Christ built the first church. After his first sermon, Peter led 3,000 people to give their lives to Christ in one day! And yet, he was a regular person - just like us - who was willing to answer Jesus' call. Peter's life is a reminder that God wants to use us regardless of our past to produce results above and beyond our greatest expectations.

Act

Take a moment to reflect on how Peter's trust in God's power and the boldness of his words led him to start the first church. We wouldn't be where we are today without the faith of the trailblazing Christ-followers who came before us. Today, thank God for his plans for the Church and how it has changed your life!

Pray

Dear God, I praise you for continuing to believe in me and use me despite my mess-ups. Help me to rely on your power to produce radical results in my life and the lives of those around me. Thank you for your church and the impact it has had on my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.