Luke wanted Theophilus (Luke 1:1-4) and all future readers to know that Jesus’ story didn’t end in Jerusalem with the cross, the resurrection, or even the ascension. The risen Jesus told his followers his saving work would keep right on going through the rest of human history. As the risen Lord left earth, two men in white (like the heavenly messengers who announced his resurrection—cf. Luke 24:4) said this was not the end of Jesus’ story—he would return. His followers (including Mary, Jesus’ mother—this is the last passage in the Bible that mentioned her) devoted themselves to prayer to prepare for the huge task that now lay before them.

Reflection
• Verse 14 introduces a theme that runs through the whole story of Acts: “The spirit of unity and the practice of prayer are major features of community life (cf. Acts 2:1, 42-44; 3:1; 4:23-32; 6:6; 13:1- 3; 16:13, 16; 20:36-37; 21:5).” Some of this group had argued at the Last Supper about which of them would be the greatest (cf. Luke 22:24), and they would disagree at times in the years ahead (e.g. Acts 11:1-3, 15:1-2, 7). What united them in Acts 1? What do you imagine Mary, the eleven apostles (sadly, Judas was no longer with them), Jesus’ brothers and the others prayed about?
• We need that prayerful, worshipful unity to carry out the mission Jesus gave us as much or more as they did. In what ways can you cultivate an overarching spirit of unity with those who join you in serving God, even when there are differences of opinion or approach?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I get so busy, “devoted” to so many things. Remind me, at least five times a day, how important it is that I devote myself to prayer. Help me keep my connection with you living and active. Amen.

1F. Scott Spencer, study note on Acts 1:14 in The CEB Study Bible. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 2013, p. 218NT.