Listen

When Pentecost Day arrived, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound from heaven like the howling of a fierce wind filled the entire house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be individual flames of fire alighting on each one of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit enabled them to speak.

Acts 2:1-4

Think

Sometimes when I’m preparing a sermon or Bible study, I see a word in scripture and feel something goading me into researching it. That’s how I stumbled on “homothumadon.” Familiar with it? I thought not. I wasn’t either.

As it turns out, the meaning of the word differs significantly from how it is usually rendered. Rather than meaning they were in one place, as portrayed here in our translation, “When Pentecost Day arrived, they were all together in one place,” this text should actually read, “When Pentecost Day arrived, they were all united in one passion and purpose.” It’s not about location but about spiritual and missional unity.

We live in a day when Christians bicker over countless issues, large and small – all while asking for the Spirit to move in our community in a mighty way. Perhaps this text is calling us to set the table for that mighty movement of the Spirit by first putting aside that which separates and beginning to fully embrace all of our siblings in Christ.

Wade Griffith

Pray

God, teach me that unity never means that the other person should give up their perspective and adopt mine. Rather than trying to conquer or colonize those who disagree, help the Jesus in me to see and acknowledge the Jesus in them. You have called us all “Beloved.” May we love one another, too. Amen.

Go

Today, don't forget that God's Spirit is with you and for you! Receive this gift. Just ask, and off you'll go, arm in arm!

Who knows what adventures, tasks, or opportunities the Spirit might have in store for you today? Let the future begin!