Listen

There were pious Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. When they heard this sound, a crowd gathered. They were mystified because everyone heard them speaking in their native languages. They were surprised and amazed, saying, “Look, aren’t all the people who are speaking Galileans, every one of them? How then can each of us hear them speaking in our native language? Parthians, Medes, and Elamites; as well as residents of Mesopotamia, Judea, and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the regions of Libya bordering Cyrene; and visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the mighty works of God in our own languages!” They were all surprised and bewildered. Some asked each other, “What does this mean?” Others jeered at them, saying, “They’re full of new wine!”

Acts 2:5-13

Think

This experience of foreign languages frightened and bewildered the disciples. And who can blame them really? They are uncertain about the future. Their leader and friend, Jesus, is gone, having ascended into heaven. They are excited to continue Jesus’ ministry, but they face an unclear future and are fearful of this transitional time.

Most of us can relate to this feeling. Transition comes with excitement, but also fear. You may also experience mixed emotions at times of transition: at graduations, starting at a new school, joining a new sports team. There is a lot you may be excited about, but a lot you may worry about too.

Yet even in the midst of uncertainty, the Spirit abounds! That same Spirit that moved among the disciples moves in your life. The Spirit is especially present during transitional times. When things are unpredictable, you may find yourself more prayerful, more attuned to God’s movement in your life. And when you face change you are most likely to sense that the Spirit gives you courage.

Katie Cashwell

Pray

Holy God, I breathe in your courage, and I breathe out your courage to others. Be with me this day. Amen.

Go

“Spirit, spirit of gentleness,
Blow through the wilderness, calling and free.
Spirit, spirit of restlessness,
Stir me from placidness, Wind, wind on the sea.”

James K. Manley, "Spirit,” 1978