Acts 1:24 “And they prayed and said, ‘You, oh Lord, who knows the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen.’”

Life for Christ-followers had been greatly tested. Their Lord had been hung on a cross until death claimed his precious breath. The pious religious leaders, the Roman soldiers, a few faithful followers, and Mary, His mother, stood on the hill and witnessed it all. With His final exhale, the very earth Christ helped speak into existence shook violently with fury, and its rocks split. The Father’s overwhelming grief extinguished His heavenly light, and all creation was wrapped in darkness.

But Hope returned, for no grave could conquer the Son of God. He rose to walk again among them before He returned to the glory of heaven from whence He came.

So, as the book of Acts opens, the disciples gathered to replace Judas, the traitor. The magnitude of choosing a replacement weighed heavily upon them. One would assume the discussion at that gathering centered around the criteria for their new appointee. Did they speak of someone with power and prestige who might help dispel persecution? Did their discourse revolve around an educated man capable of debate against the relentless religious scholars? Perhaps they considered men of wealth who might elevate their reputation. On the contrary, scripture records none of these were considered. Tossing human logic to the wind, the disciples prayed for a man with one criterion: a heart belonging to the Father.

Scripture reveals a God whose desires are often in contrast to what we admire. If we treasure outward appearances, our hearts will be found among the shiny things of life. If we hold dear our position, our hearts will be found among the ranks of hierarchy. If we cherish material possessions, our hearts will be lost in a world that will one day return to dust. It is important to know, God is not impressed by our position, our looks, our popularity, nor our station in life. So, if we seek what the Father seeks, social media will not consume us. The quest for perfection, looks, and popularity will not define us. Power and wealth will not drive our ambitions. Our pursuit will be of what really matters: a heart belonging to our Heavenly Father.

Father God may our hearts seek You.

Blessings,

Rita Cochrane