6/9/19

The coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-21) opens a new opportunity for Christ’s followers. Jesus instructed them to wait there for the promise of the Father. “This,” he said, “is what you have heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” (Acts 1:4-5). John also said that they would be baptized with fire (Matthew 3:11) and so they were when the tongues of flame appeared on them and they were given the ability to speak in different languages.

All of these signs were to strengthen them and give the assurance that even though Jesus no longer walked with them as a human, His presence would always accompany them, just as He promised. This gave them the courage to go and share the Good News as Jesus had called them to do.

Being able to speak in different languages was a wonderful gift, but it was a lesson for them and us – we must find a way to speak to those who need to hear about salvation. That doesn’t always mean learning a foreign language, it means learning their situation and being able to speak truth into their lives in meaningful ways.

It is difficult to help others if you don’t know their circumstances. Jesus went out and interacted with a wide variety of people, wanting to know them, and wanting them to know Him. He didn’t just sit in Jerusalem teaching, waiting for seekers to approach Him; He went out seeking them, and calls us to do the same.

Heavenly Father, we are often slow to see the people You send us to and the problems You call us to solve. Make us bold in our outreach, not waiting to help others and share Your love, but actively searching for ways to serve You in the world. Amen.

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