Acts 8

“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went” (4). Kicked out of Jerusalem, aware of violent persecution by men like Saul (3), believers boldly carried the message of Jesus to new cities. Rather than hiding, Philip went to Samaria and “proclaimed the Messiah there” along with dramatic signs and wonders. While greedy people like Simon tried to use the new movement for personal influence and financial gain, those who loved Jesus risked everything to share his message of forgiveness and new life.

“So there was great joy in that city” (8). Whether our lives look successful or not by worldly measures, whether we gain or lose, we can experience “great joy” by living whole-heartedly for Jesus.