Embracing the Edge: Trusting the Spirit's Guidance

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus Is Always With Us—The Gift of the Holy Spirit

Even though Jesus ascended to heaven, he did not leave his followers alone; instead, he sent the Holy Spirit to be with them and with us today. The Holy Spirit is a living reminder of Jesus’s teachings, power, and presence, helping us to love abundantly, strive for justice, and welcome God’s kingdom. Even when we cannot see the Spirit, we can feel its presence in our lives and in the community of believers, encouraging us to be the body of Christ together. [22:31]

Luke 24:44-53 (ESV)
Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God.

Reflection: In what ways have you sensed the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life recently, especially during times of change or separation from others?

Day 2: Empowered to Witness—The Mission to the Ends of the Earth

Jesus calls his followers to be witnesses of his life, death, and resurrection—not just in familiar places, but to the very ends of the earth. The Holy Spirit empowers us to step beyond our comfort zones, to share the good news with all people, even those we may not understand or naturally like. This mission is ongoing, and we are invited to trust that God’s Spirit will give us the courage and words we need as we go. [33:24]

Acts 1:1-11 (ESV)
In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

Reflection: Who is someone outside your usual circle that you can reach out to today with Christ’s love or a word of encouragement?

Day 3: Living on the Edge—Trusting God in Uncertainty

Life often brings us to the edge of the unknown—big decisions, changes, or challenges that make us feel uncertain or afraid. Just as the disciples stood on the edge after Jesus’s ascension, unsure of what would come next, we too are called to trust that God is with us in these moments. The Holy Spirit meets us at the edge, giving us the strength to wait, to hope, and to step forward in faith, knowing that God’s mission is bigger than our fears. [42:40]

Isaiah 43:1-2 (ESV)
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

Reflection: What is one “edge” you are facing right now, and how can you invite God’s Spirit to give you courage or clarity as you wait or move forward?

Day 4: Restoration Is Not Resurrection—Embracing God’s Greater Vision

God’s work in our lives and in the church is not just about restoring things to how they used to be, but about resurrection—bringing new life, transformation, and hope beyond what we can imagine. Like the disciples longing for the restoration of Israel, we may wish for the “good old days,” but God calls us to trust in a future shaped by resurrection, scars and all, where we are changed and equipped for new purpose. [45:30]

2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Reflection: Where in your life or in our church are you longing for restoration, and how might God be inviting you to hope for resurrection and new beginnings instead?

Day 5: Bold Discipleship—Following Jesus to the Edge and Beyond

Jesus invites us to follow him to the edge—into bold discipleship, deep spirituality, and daring justice. This means proclaiming repentance and forgiveness to all, loving even those we find difficult, and trusting that Christ and the Holy Spirit will catch us when we stumble. As we step out in faith, we become the people and the church God intends us to be, ready to embrace God’s mission for the world. [47:20]

Micah 6:8 (ESV)
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Reflection: What is one bold step of discipleship, justice, or love you can take this week, trusting that God will be with you no matter the outcome?

Sermon Summary

Today, we gathered to reflect on what it means to live “on the edge”—not just in moments of risk or adventure, but in the everyday decisions, transitions, and uncertainties that shape our lives. Whether it’s facing changes in relationships, health, or our values, each of us stands at the edge of something unknown. The disciples, too, lived on the edge: following Jesus through uncertainty, loss, and ultimately, the mystery of his ascension. As Jesus prepared to leave, he promised the gift of the Holy Spirit—a presence that would empower, comfort, and guide his followers into a new chapter, not of restoration to the past, but of resurrection into something greater.

We considered how reminders—whether a small mascot, a cherished object, or a gentle hand squeeze—can help us remember those we love and the presence of God’s Spirit among us. Even when we cannot see Jesus physically, the Holy Spirit remains as a living reminder of his teachings, love, and power. This Spirit calls us to be the body of Christ: loving generously, seeking justice, and including those who are different from us.

The story of the ascension, as told in both Luke and Acts, is not about returning to what was, but about being sent out to witness, to proclaim forgiveness and hope, and to trust that God’s mission is always bigger than our nostalgia for the “good old days.” The disciples were not called to restore Israel to its former glory, but to step over the edge into a new, Spirit-empowered mission that would reach the ends of the earth. Likewise, as a church and as individuals, we are invited to dream beyond restoration and to trust in resurrection—embracing change, risk, and the unknown, confident that Christ is with us, the Spirit empowers us, and God’s grace will catch us when we fall.

Key Takeaways

1. The Holy Spirit is our living reminder and companion, especially when we feel alone or uncertain. Just as a small mascot or a gentle hand squeeze can remind us of those we love, the Spirit is God’s way of assuring us that we are never abandoned. This presence is not always visible, but it is deeply felt, empowering us to love, forgive, and serve in ways we could not on our own. [22:31]
2. Living “on the edge” is not reserved for the adventurous or the young; it is the daily reality of every follower of Christ. Whether we are making life-altering decisions, wrestling with our values, or facing societal changes, we are constantly invited to trust God at the threshold of the unknown. The edge is not a place of fear, but of possibility, where God’s Spirit meets us and calls us forward. [36:43]
3. Jesus does not call us to restoration, but to resurrection. Restoration longs for a return to what was, but resurrection is about transformation—scars and all—into something new and greater. Our hope as individuals and as a church should not be limited to reclaiming past glory, but should reach for the bold, Spirit-led future God is preparing for us. [45:13]
4. The mission of God always pushes us beyond our comfort zones and our familiar boundaries. The disciples were sent not just to Jerusalem, but to Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth—including people and places they might have preferred to avoid. True witness means embracing those we do not understand or even like, trusting that God’s love is for all. [41:39]
5. Waiting is a faithful response, but it is not a passive one. Like the disciples, we may find ourselves gazing upward, longing for clarity or for the return of what we’ve lost. Yet, the Spirit calls us to readiness—to act, to witness, and to trust that God’s timing and mission are unfolding, even as we wait. Our waiting is filled with hope, expectation, and the promise of God’s empowering presence. [42:55]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[19:52] - Introduction and Gathering
[20:09] - The Mascot and Reminders of Presence
[22:15] - Jesus’ Ascension and the Gift of the Holy Spirit
[23:32] - Experiencing the Spirit in Community
[24:50] - Prayer and Blessing for the Children
[25:27] - “Like a Rock” Hymn and Reflection
[27:03] - Confession and Assurance of Forgiveness
[28:51] - “Be Strong in the Lord” Song
[30:15] - Prayer of Illumination
[31:10] - Scripture Reading: Luke 24:44-53
[32:26] - Scripture Reading: Acts 1:1-11
[34:32] - Living on the Edge: Everyday Decisions
[38:44] - The Disciples’ Edge and Jesus’ Ministry
[39:58] - The Ascension: Differences in Luke and Acts
[41:39] - The Mission Beyond Boundaries
[45:13] - Restoration vs. Resurrection
[47:04] - Dreaming Beyond Restoration
[48:29] - Closing Hymn and Sending Forth

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Luke 24:44-53 — - Acts 1:1-11

Observation Questions

In both Luke 24:44-53 and Acts 1:1-11, what does Jesus promise his disciples before he leaves them?
According to the sermon, what are some everyday examples of “living on the edge” that people experience? [[36:43]]
What physical reminders did the pastor mention that help us remember the presence of those we love or the presence of God? [[21:25]]
In Acts 1, what question do the disciples ask Jesus before his ascension, and how does he respond? [[33:10]]

Interpretation Questions

The sermon says the Holy Spirit is a “living reminder” of Jesus’ presence and power. Why might Jesus have chosen to leave the Spirit rather than stay physically present? [[22:31]]
The disciples wanted Jesus to “restore the kingdom to Israel.” What does this reveal about their hopes, and how does Jesus redirect their focus? [[44:55]]
The pastor described “living on the edge” as a daily reality, not just for the adventurous. How does this idea challenge the way people usually think about faith and risk? [[36:43]]
The sermon contrasts “restoration” with “resurrection.” What is the difference, and why is resurrection the greater hope for the church and for individuals? [[45:13]]

Application Questions

The pastor talked about reminders like mascots, cherished objects, or a hand squeeze to help us remember God’s presence. Is there something in your life that serves as a reminder of God’s love or the Spirit’s presence? How does it help you? [[21:25]]
Think about a recent time when you felt “on the edge”—facing a big decision, change, or uncertainty. How did you respond? Did you sense God’s Spirit with you in that moment? [[36:43]]
The disciples were sent to people and places they might have preferred to avoid. Is there someone in your life, or a group of people, that you find hard to love or understand? What would it look like to witness to them with Christ’s love? [[41:39]]
The sermon said, “Jesus does not call us to restoration, but to resurrection.” Are there areas in your life or in our church where you are longing for the “good old days”? What would it mean to trust God for something new instead? [[45:13]]
Waiting is described as a faithful but active response. When you are in a season of waiting, what helps you stay hopeful and ready for God’s next step? [[42:55]]
The Holy Spirit empowers us to love, forgive, and serve in ways we couldn’t on our own. Is there a specific way you feel called to step out in faith this week, even if it feels risky or uncomfortable? [[22:31]]
The pastor said, “Let’s dream bigger than restoration. Let’s dare to believe and hope and trust in resurrection for the church.” What is one bold hope or dream you have for our church’s future? How can you be part of making it happen? [[47:04]]

Sermon Clips

Although what Jesus is doing and in fact has always done is live on the edge and draw us towards him. And that's what he does with the disciples in Luke's gospel. The text tells us he opened their minds to understand the scriptures and that he is sending them what my father promised which is the Holy Spirit. So they may go forth as witnesses to Jesus. They are witnessing to his life, death, and resurrection. And they are also witnessing the repentance and forgiveness of sins proclaimed in Jesus' name to all nations beginning with Jerusalem. [00:40:59]

And in the book of Acts, even if the timeline is different, Jesus also tells the disciples that they are to be witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. For Jesus and for the disciples, there is no edge. They cannot step over to share the gospel message. It's such good news that nothing can stop it. [00:41:37]

So, I wonder if as some of the disciples in Acts were gazing up toward the sky where Jesus has gone, they were thinking, "Well, I could witness in Jerusalem, but because I know quite a few people there and and there's some people I know might be receptive to the gospel, but forget about heading to Samaria because I don't like those people." [00:42:00]

That group of disciples was on the edge of something they couldn't even imagine. Gazing up into the heavens, perhaps grieving the loss of Jesus once more, wondering what the next steps were and when this promised Holy Spirit was coming down. So they did what probably most if not all of us do when we approach a precarious edge in our lives. [00:42:38]

We wait for some gut feeling that will tell us what to do. Do we step over that edge? Do we back away? Do we get ready to be pushed? Because you know what? Sometimes the Holy Spirit or life does not wait for us to figure things out when we're on the edge. [00:43:17]

As we look back on a hundred years as the United Church of Canada, there's lots to celebrate and lift up. Faithful witness through the decades at provincial, national, and international levels. The hard but rewarding work of justice for both people and the planet, and the ministry of countless local united churches in their communities across the country, including this church. [00:43:44]

But I can't help but feel for a long time, many years in fact, that as a church, we've been like the disciples waiting, gazing up at the heavens, waiting for Jesus to come back and revive us and take us back to the good old days as church. [00:44:35]

It's kind of like the disciples asking Jesus, "Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel? We want our church restored to its glory days. And who wouldn't? But what if God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit have something greater in mind? [00:44:56]

The word restore means to bring something back to its original state. But that's not what Jesus is about. Jesus did not come back from the grave restored. He came back resurrected, scars and all. And when you get sick with a cold and then you get better, your body is not just restored, it's changed because you now carry antibodies for that particular virus strain. [00:45:21]

When you go through a painful loss and grieve and hopefully eventually begin to heal, you are more than restored. Your soul and psyche have gained wisdom and empathy that you can share with others. Restoration is not resurrection. So getting back to the church, why do we long for restoration? [00:45:48]

Can our hope and faith be bigger than that? Dare we trust our lives and our church and step over the edge towards resurrection? For the disciples in Acts, God wasn't interested in the restoration of Israel. What God was working towards was Israel bringing the light of salvation to the whole world, all nations, to the ends of the earth. [00:46:13]

The disciples think God is going to give them back a restored kingdom. But in fact, at the ascension, Jesus has taken them to the edge of God's mission for Israel to share the gospel and redeem the whole world, Gentiles and all. And it's the Holy Spirit that will take them over that edge and birth the church at Pentecost, which is next week. [00:46:39]

As we celebrate 100 years of being the United Church, as we celebrate 100 years of ministry and mission at Zion United Church, let's dream bigger than restoration. Let's dare to believe and hope and trust in resurrection for the church. [00:47:01]

Let's head toward Jesus, our living Lord, living right on the edge and follow him as he leads our church towards its vision of bold disciplehip, deep spirituality, and daring justice. Let's embrace the mission that Jesus left with his disciples before he ascended to witness and proclaim repentance and forgiveness in his name to all nations, to the ends of the earth, to all people, even the ones we don't like or understand or agree with. [00:47:20]

And let's trust that even when we step off an edge in error, Christ will be there to catch us. The Holy Spirit will be there to bring us back and God will be there to grant us mercy and grace and give us another chance to live into the people and the church God intends us to be. [00:47:44]

Come, oh Holy Spirit, we are ready. [00:48:09]

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