"When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13
It wasn't long ago that I found myself in the company of several men highly regarded in the church for their knowledge of God's word and their ability to convey His message to masses. When I left their company I felt rather small to say the least. I wasn't able to join in some of the conversations because I had no expertise in the subjects we discussed. At one point I tried to interject but the effort only ended in embarrasment. Those men were gracious and kind but I couldn't help feeling silly for my mistakes.
I have caught myself on several occassions wondering what difference I could make in this world. I am not able nor do I possess the desire to become a scholar. But, is this really required for me to please our Father? Is His pleasure based on whether or not I can read the greek New Testament? I am ordinary. There is nothing about me worthy of mention, at least, not according to the world's standards. This was also the case with Peter and John. They were uneducated, unknown...ordinary. Yet these men accomplished great things for His kingdom. And the most beautiful thing happened in this story! Those men of authority and status "took note" that Peter and John had been with Jesus!
I have on occassion "taken note" of another. Several years ago I was blessed with the opportunity to lead worship for a group of college students on a weekend retreat. Leading worship is one of my greatest passions! I believe worship is a moment of intimacy between man and his Creator, a time when man is able to enter the throne room of the Most High and commune with Him. What an amazing gift! This weekend I had been given the charge of helping others enter this place of intimacy. Throughout the weekend I was humbled as I witnessed a student whose passion for the Lord erupted from him! It was as if there was absolutely no room in his being to contain the excitement he was experiencing. It was evident this young man had entered the throne room of the Most High and the love and compassion of our Savior had engulfed him. He had been with Jesus and there was no doubt in my mind about it. This was years ago and yet to this day I remember this young man! I had taken note that he had been with Jesus!
It is my prayer that when I am with others they will "take note" that I have been with Jesus. They will see His goodness displayed in me. My words will sound like His. My heart will look like His heart! His power and grace will overflow from my life in everything I do! "Being" with Jesus is of great value!
