Immediately after the ascension of Jesus, the disciples, in obedience to the instructions of Christ, returned to Jerusalem and made their way to the upper room.  There they would tarry until endued with power from the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost.  Ten days later, their lives would be forever changed, as the Holy Spirit would invade, shake, and fill each of them.

Significantly, there was also for the apostles, a matter of business that needed their attention.  There was a void in leadership, Judas was gone and he must be replaced.  Prayer was offered, lots were cast, and Matthias was chosen. 

Interestingly, though no replacement for Jesus was necessary and this reality is tacit evidence, though they were conscious of His abiding presence.  His role as great High Priest is ongoing and He leads according to the author Hebrews, from the power of an endless life for He is the same “yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 7:16; 13:8).

Human leadership is important in the church.  It is vital to its growth and development but we must be careful not to overstate its significance.  Every human leader will reach the final season of their call.  Whether by transition, retirement, or death, each of us will someday write the final chapter of our leadership exploits.  But, the One who promised to build His church, who loves it as His bride, leads on.  Human leadership will come and go, fail and succeed, soar and stumble.  This must not shake us or bring dismay for the perils and distress of the church are on the very heart of the One who is our eternal leader, in whom there is no variableness or shadow of turning.  He leads His church and Hell itself cannot withstand its impact!