“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.“
Acts 2:1-4

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SEPTEMBER 2, 2024

The disciples must have experienced quite a roller-coaster of emotions. Gut-wrenching anxiety and fear at the arrest and trial of Jesus gave way to horror and grief at His death. Three days later they experienced a joy deeper than anything they had ever known as they witnessed their teacher and friend risen. Now, after watching Him ascend into Heaven, they doubtless felt bereft as they waited for the gift He had promised before He left.

“‘Do not leave Jerusalem,’ He had instructed them. ‘Wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit'”
 Acts 1:4-5

Jesus had promised on several occasions that He would send the Holy Spirit; John the Baptist also foretold the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Not only that, but on many occasions before the birth of Jesus God spoke through the prophets of a day in which the Spirit would dwell among the people. Now, the disciples obediently gathered together in Jerusalem, praying day after day as they waited for the fulfillment of these promises.

What a striking difference from their behavior less than two months earlier! After Jesus was put to death, His heartbroken and disillusioned followers scattered, forgetting all the times He had spoken to them of His death and resurrection. But this time was different—the disciples had seen that not even death could keep Jesus from fulfilling His promises. They stayed put, even though Jerusalem was a place hostile to followers of Christ.

The longer we walk with God—and the more we are confronted with His power, love, and faithfulness—the easier it becomes to trust Him and understand that He always keeps His promises. The disciples witnessed this firsthand, so they waited.

When we find ourselves in a season of waiting or times of doubt, let us look back and reflect on the faithfulness and power of our Savior.

Questions for reflection and discussion:

  • How do you think the disciples felt while waiting in Jerusalem?
  • What are some examples of God’s faithfulness in your own life?
  • How does reflecting on God’s faithfulness and power help you when confronted by difficult seasons?

 

Church Reading Plan: Ezekial 5; Psalm 42-43