May 19 | Acts 2:1-21

by Elaine Pierce

Fifty days after Jesus rose from the dead, "God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven" came to Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost (Jews observe this sacred holiday today - it's called Shavout. Jesus' disciples were there, too, and the Holy Spirit came to them in vivid form: a violent wind, followed by tongues of fire. It had to be an incredible sight. Some of the observant Jews were "amazed and perplexed" (v. 12), but others ridiculed these unlearned Galileans: "They have had too much wine." (v. 13)

Isn't it interesting that both of these groups saw the same thing, and they had diametrically opposite reactions to what they saw? One group was awestruck; the other group was dismissive. Peter addressed both sides when he got up to speak. He recognized the skepticism of the jeering group: "These men are not drunk....It's only nine in the morning!" (v. 15) And he uses scripture that these Jews would be very familiar with to explain that what the prophet Joel foretold had come to pass in their very presence. (v. 17-21)

Do you need proof before you believe? Ask God to give you a heart that is open to the work of the Holy Spirit, and he will guide you even when you don't see a clear path ahead. He will reveal his plan in his timing, not ours. When you are faced with doubt, and we all are, ask him for faith. He will provide it, often in unexpected ways.

I doubt that the disciples thought that something special was going to happen at nine in the morning as they gathered together "in one place." Luke tells us in Acts 1:14 that they were faithfully worshiping their Lord:"They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers." Consistent Bible study, prayer and worship are the building blocks that God uses to build our "faith muscles" so we are prepared for hard times, for challenges, and for tongues of fire and violent winds. Watch and be ready! Pentecost is here!

Lord, so often I doubt your timing, and I wonder if you are listening to my prayers. Help me day by day to trust you, to spend time with you, and to serve you. Give me a heart that falls deeper in love with you every day. Amen.