March 9. Acts 8. Phil Bruns

Don’t Look Back

For some time, he was the one to “amaze” the onlookers as a magician. While having a persona of the modern-day David Blaine, Criss Angel, or other popular magicians, Simon was living the life of an advanced sleight-of-hand. If cameras were in existence at the time, he would have filmed his own Samaritan TV special, “Simon’s Magical Kingdom”.

After the scattering of disciples that sent Philip to Samaria, Simon’s followers began to repent and be baptized into the name of Jesus. One by one, their lives changed for the better. Simon saw the power of God through Philip and was baptized himself. His worldview changed when he became a disciple, and thus, the tables turned for Simon. He followed Philip, being amazed at the magic of a changed life. When Peter and John arrived later to provide a laying on of hands for the Holy Spirit, Simon was increasingly taken aback and wanted what he saw.

He was drawn to what could become of him rather than what he could do for God. Simon’s pride conquered his soul. He valued the hope of money and fame as he foolishly asked Peter to buy the powers given to him by God. Simon lost sight of the power of God and was trying to buy his own. His pride snared him back to his old ways. His sights were off God, back onto the things of the world.

When we become a disciple of Jesus, we need to keep our eyes on Jesus, the cross, lordship, and loss of self as those were the reasons behind our decisions. He is the head of the body and the leader of the Christian movement. He is our intercessor before the Creator and our Prince of Peace in an unpeaceful world. Each day, we should refocus on Jesus, realigning our site lines fresh and new. And who else is better to see and understand us and to believe in us? Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life for sure.

So, don’t look back to old ways, but keep looking forward with God, eyes focused on Jesus. What are the great things that lay ahead for you? What doors will God open for you as you focus on him renewing your discipleship commitment every day?