There are about 8,423,178 places in these verses where one might begin exploring the work of the Holy Spirit! Seriously, I have read these over and over again and hardly know where to begin. There is wind, flames, languages, youth, old people, men, women, blood, smoky mist, sun, moon, Jesus, repentance, baptism, sins, Holy Spirit. And that just touches a few spots.
So, let’s begin at the beginning of this Pentecost story.
In the midst of all the excitement and newness and fervor two things run as a theme throughout. (1) The work of the Holy Spirit comes in the midst of community and (2) The work of the Holy Spirit falls to individuals.
Look at Acts 2:1. “They will all together.” Look at Acts 2:3. “...a tongue (of fire) rested on each of them. Community is the context in which the Spirit comes to each individual. Look at Acts 2:2. “(The wind) filled the entire house.” Look at Acts 2:4. They spoke as “the Spirit gave them ability.” The Holy Spirit was given to all, but the gifts varied as the Spirit touched each one.
Look at Acts 2:16. We are reminded that God’s community exists in more than just this moment. The prophet Joel—from “way back then”---spoke words that were part of the Pentecost community’s life. We who share in today’s family of faith are built upon the foundation of the ones who came before us. Community is not defined by calendar.
Look at Acts 2:21. In quoting the prophet Joel, Luke (the author of Acts), uses singular descriptor: “everyone,” each one individually. Look at Acts 2:17-18. The gift of the Spirit is for young, old, men, women, slave, free. The Spirit is certainly generous and inclusive.
Notice how the Holy Spirit comes on the Spirit’s schedule. not ours. “Suddenly” (Acts 2:2). “Nine o’clock in the morning” (Acts 2:15). The Spirit has a way of showing up in unexpected times and places.
Expect the unexpected. Live out your faith journey within community. Put into practice the gifts the Holy Spirit gives to you.
What Someone Else Has Said: Bill Leonard (Baptist Questions, Baptist Answers, Westminster John Knox) wrote: “The Holy Spirit also is at work in the world. It is the stealth presence of God...”
Prayer: As you prepare this lesson, let your prayer begin: “Come, Holy Spirit...”
