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When the day of Pentecost came, all the believers were gathered together in one place. Suddenly there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong wind blowing, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then they saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each person there. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak. There were Jews living in Jerusalem, religious men who had come from every nation under heaven. When they heard this noise, a large crowd gathered. They were all excited, because each one heard the believers talking in his own language. In amazement and wonder they exclaimed. “These people who talking like this are Galileans! How is it then, that all of us hear them speaking in our own native languages?” (Many different languages listed here) both Jews and Gentiles converted to Judaism, yet all of us hear them speaking in our own languages about the great things God has done!)

 

I used to think this was the first Pentecost. Actually, it had been a Jewish festival since the first Passover. It was 50 days after Passover, marking the harvest of crops and giving God thanks for all their blessings. People came from many counties to celebrate Pentecost. It was one of the most attended festivals. What a better time for the Holy Spirit to show up. Jesus had ascended to heaven ten days ago, promising His disciplines that He would send the Spirit to empower them, to preach to all nations. “Go to all people and make them my disciplines. I will always be with you”

This marks the beginning of the birth of the church. God’s message is for all people, cultures, languages, race, nationality doesn’t make a difference to God. He created diversity in this world. He wants us to live together in peace and harmony and to spread the good news of what Jesus did for us on the cross.

Gracious Father, thank you for the Holy Spirit in our lives to lead us in the direction You would have us go. Amen

Jeanne Palumbo

jeannelpalumbo@gmail.com

 

Prayer Concern - That we would look at diversity as a blessing, and a way to work together.