Daily Devotion, June 5, 2022

 

Devotion:

Read Acts 2:1-12.

The annual Jewish festival of Pentecost meant there was a big crowd in Jerusalem. People from many nations and different languages had come for this holy day. The apostles of Jesus had followed Jesus’ directions and stayed in Jerusalem, praying and waiting for the power he promised would come to help them be his witnesses to all people. Suddenly, that mysterious, divine power arrived. The Holy Spirit filled each of them in such a way that each of them was able to speak in the various languages of the people in the streets.  

For us who serve our Lord’s mission today, I believe there is another way to think about “different languages.” (Yes, some are called to learn Spanish or French or other languages like that in order to communicate in particular situations.) Every person is unique and in order to effectively communicate with them, it is usually necessary to learn how they see life, what experiences they have had and how they tend to talk about what is going on around them. In other words, to learn their “language.” A teenager sees life and the world differently than someone who has lived several decades. Someone who grew up in a different part of this country or in another nation will likely see life differently than you. To focus on listening to them and building a relationship with them is to lay the groundwork for being able to communicate God’s message with them.

I believe the Holy Spirit still provides “Pentecost moments” for individuals and groups when we stay focused on “inviting all to follow (Jesus Christ).” As those apostles did, start with prayer and waiting. Look for opportunities to listen and establish relationships with those around you. And be assured that this Holy Spirit, who is a “language teacher” will guide you all the way.

Personal Worship Option:

Consider offering this prayer today: “Holy Spirit, thank you for this reminder to stay connected to you every day. Help me to stay focused on your mission to communicate God’s message of love and forgiveness with everyone I can. Help me listen and learn the language of those around me so I can share your message. In Jesus’ name, Amen."