The Holy Spirit is all about movement and transformation.
Jesus’ disciples were all together in Jerusalem on the festival of Pentecost. Because of the festival, the city was filled with people who had come from many countries to celebrate. Suddenly, the house was filled with sound “like the rush of a violent wind” and tongues like fire rested on each of the disciples. The Holy Spirit filled them and enabled the followers to speak the languages of the people who were drawn by the loud sound. They were all from Galilee, yet they began to spread the story of God’s amazing works and the story of Jesus.
It seems that the sound and the fire moved the followers out of the room where they were together, out into the street with people from every nation. They were transformed and were able to tell the story of God so that everyone could understand. What a shock for both speakers and listeners! The Holy Spirit filled the followers, sending them out to connect with strangers and other outsiders.
God comes to each of us in ways we can understand, telling the story of God’s love for the world and for each of us. God meets us where we are, speaking our own language. We hear God’s message of love and compassion and inclusion in ways that transform our lives. Like those early followers, the Holy Spirit also moves you and me to be part of what God is doing in the world – bringing love and forgiveness, compassion and healing, justice and inclusion – bringing new life.
Peace,
weekly prayer | the Holy Spirit fills and moves Jesus’ followers in Acts 2