Suffering and Joy Together

There are five stories in today’s reading, which you can see if you glance at the titles that the Common English Bible gives them.   If you can, read them one at a time, spread throughout the day.  They are powerful examples of the energy of God that gives courage to the apostles who experience the same persecutions as Jesus did. I love this verse:  “The apostles left the council rejoicing because they had been regarded as worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of the name (5:41).”

Water and oil don’t mix; but joy and suffering can. If you are suffering in any way, offer this for others who do not have the faith that gives meaning to their pain.  Praying for them will bring you joy.

 Acts 5—6

Thursdays are dedicated to the letters of Paul, other letters,
the Book of Acts, and the Book of Revelation.
This year in Easter Season we read Acts 1—9

These Firestarters are from a new edition of The Bible Through the Seasons being developed for families with children. For the Firestarters in the original edition, I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or table! Check the menu options at the site for more information.