WordLive - Year OneSample

Prepare: God is generous. Give thanks for what you have received so far. Worth the wait It was exciting and somewhat frightening – yes, the Twister ride at Universal Studios was definitely worth the wait. Looking a tornado right in the eye was possibly a little like the immersive, multi-sensational, nature-shaking encounter experienced by the followers of Jesus on that famous day. Pentecost was a smart calendar choice for God to deliver the gift that Jesus had been promising. The date was highly significant and Jerusalem was packed (v 5). This annual festival, celebrated on the fiftieth day after Passover, attracted Jews from miles around. Fire and wind The followers, remaining in Jerusalem as Jesus had asked, suddenly heard a sound like a gale-force wind coming from heaven with what appeared to be fire. As the fire divided like tongues, resting on each of them, they began to speak in other languages (vs 1–4). The wind was perceived to be coming from heaven – a sign perhaps of God’s creative breath bringing new life and energy. How miraculous to be able to speak in the various languages of the listeners (vs 6–12)! Heaven on earth Peter seizes the opportunity to speak up and quotes scripture to prove that these phenomena had been forecast and were available to everyone, regardless of age or gender (vs 14–21). The day of Pentecost was a rollercoaster of a ride and a powerful illustration of heaven coming to earth. Respond: What does the Holy Spirit mean to you? Have you ever experienced anything similar to the disciples? http://www.wordlive.org/Session/Classic/2012-05-30