THE DAY OF PENTECOST
May 28, 2023
“Amazed and Perplexed ”
“. . . the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. . . . they asked ‘Are not these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that . . . in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.’ All were amazed and perplexed, saying, ‘What does this mean?’” (Excerpted from Acts 2:6, 12)
The ability to communicate is one of the most crucial skills we human beings possess. Parents eagerly prompt and talk to their babies, hoping to hear “Mama” or “Dada” through the babble. Speech impairment is a difficult situation, and American Sign Language has made many able to interact and be included with others.
Language skills are great difference-makers in our ability to understand, appreciate and respect one another. If you’ve ever tried to make sense of “medi-speak” or “techno-lingo” you’ve probably found your patience tested about as far as it will go. One benefit, of course, is that once we learn how unhelpful and rude that form of speech is, we’re not likely to use it.
We frequently view news reports of national leaders meeting one-on-one with translators hovering nearby, and it’s remarkable to observe a meeting of the General Assembly of the United Nations, members all wearing headphones and listening to speeches and discussions translated into their own language. Understanding one another is challenging enough, with cultural, societal, historic, economic, and governmental differences; at least if we can hear and respond in our own language, we can feel comfortable and included.
As we read the first chapter of Acts, we find a simple account of Christ’s ascension into heaven as well as his promise to the disciples that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them. Returning to Jerusalem, they began preaching and witnessing, when suddenly the room was filled with the sound of a rushing wind, and tongues of fire appeared over the heads of those gathered. People from a wide variety of regions and countries were able to understand the message in their own languages. The hearts and minds of both the speakers and the hearers, were opened to understand and believe the words of love and forgiveness through Christ Jesus.
This day was far from a kickoff event or a pep rally; it was a dramatic illustration of how the Holy Spirit enables ordinary humans to carry out God’s work. If any of the apostles questioned their abilities to go forward in ministry, their doubts were likely resolved, as many in the crowd heard and believed, were baptized, and became faithful followers.
The disciples had depended on Jesus for leadership, guidance and authority, and in fulfillment of his promise, the Holy Spirit came to them, empowering and enabling them to preach the Gospel throughout the world. We, too, have this message to share through our words and deeds, and are able to do so because the Holy Spirit works through us. Thanks be to God for his amazing gift!
Amazed and grateful,
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers