Welcome to
Zion Bread of Life Christian Church

Sunday, 4th May 2025

Rev Daniel Poon

Today is the first Sunday of May 2025, and we turn to the beginning of the Book of Acts. In Acts 1:8, Jesus gives His final promise and commission before ascending to heaven: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This verse is more than just a historical moment — it is a living promise for every believer today. Many of us long to live a strong and meaningful Christian life, but we must remember that the true source of spiritual power is the Holy Spirit.

To help us understand this truth, we can look at the real-life story of Jarena Lee, an African American woman born in 1783. Despite being poor, uneducated, and working as a domestic servant in a society where Black women had no social standing, Jarena encountered the gospel and eventually gave her life to Christ in 1804. Soon after, she felt a deep calling to preach the gospel. At the time, her church did not allow women to preach, and she faced rejection and discouragement. But through much prayer and spiritual struggle, she heard God’s voice clearly telling her, “Go preach the gospel! I will put words in your mouth.” Though she had no official position, she obeyed and began sharing the Word wherever she could. Over time, even her critics saw that God had truly called her. Jarena became the first recognized African American woman preacher in the U.S., traveling long distances to preach. She once said, “I was an extinguished candle, but the Spirit of God relit me so I could shine in the darkness.”

Her story, like the journey of the disciples in Acts, shows us three key spiritual steps. First, we must long for the promise of the Kingdom, not just for earthly solutions. The disciples originally asked Jesus if He would restore the kingdom of Israel, still thinking in political terms. But Jesus pointed them to something greater — the coming of the Holy Spirit. Likewise, we sometimes seek healing, peace, or success, but the Spirit comes primarily to empower us for God’s mission.

Second, we must prepare ourselves as vessels for the Holy Spirit. After Jesus ascended, the disciples returned and devoted themselves to prayer in unity (Acts 1:13–14). Jarena Lee also spent much time in prayer and inner struggle before receiving God’s power. God fills those who are humble, hungry, and united in spirit.

Third, we must take the first step in obedience. Before Pentecost arrived, the disciples, led by Peter, moved in faith by appointing a new apostle (Acts 1:21–26). They acted before seeing any outward results. Jarena Lee did the same — she stepped out in faith without waiting for permission, and God confirmed His call through the fruit of her ministry.

As we reflect today, we should ask: What might be blocking the Holy Spirit in our lives? Are we held back by fear, self-doubt, or the opinions of others? Have we lost our hunger for God because of pride or self-reliance? Let the Holy Spirit shine His light on these questions.

In closing, Jarena Lee’s story is not just meant to inspire us — it is an invitation. The Holy Spirit is still calling and empowering ordinary people to shine His light. Let us pray: “Lord, just as You ignited Jarena, ignite me again. I don’t want to struggle on my own. Fill me with Your Spirit and use me to be Your witness.”