Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
May 19, 2024
Acts 2:1-4
1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
Good Morning! Joy to all who believe!
When I think of Pentecost, I think of the sudden eruption of sound as all are called to praise God in their own languages. The frenzy grows and continues for a while, but then the noise dies down and it’s as if we’re standing in a vacuum chamber without sound. I begin to feel a euphoria of peace as a gentle breeze starts to move around me.
I am reminded of Elijah who went to hide in the cave for fear of losing his life. First, he heard a great wind, then he felt the rocks crumble in a great earthquake. Finally, he endured the flames of a great fire. Elijah finally experienced ultimate quietness and heard a whisper from God.
Praise God for the Holy Spirit who is our advocate. When we feel alone and defeated, we can lean on the Holy Spirit. When we can no longer find the words to ask for help, the Holy Spirit acts and speaks on our behalf.
It seems that clanging cymbals and making a joyful noise is our human presentation of joy and praise, through which God celebrates with us. This is all part of preparing for the quiet that follows so that we might hear God’s word.
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10
Affirming God, Thank you for this beautiful gift of life. We celebrate the arrival of the Holy Spirit on this day. We thank you! In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Because the Holy Spirit is with us, we can rest.
Listen for the still, small voice! Pastor Liz
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