Scripture
When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.
Reflection
For centuries, the Jews celebrated the feast of the Pentecost, which was held 50 days after the Passover meal. Pentecost was not meant to be celebrated individually, but in community. As it says in Acts 2:1, people were all together in one place, a practice that was signified and built on the value of community. Indeed, our faiths are vulnerable and impotent outside of community; if someone believes His faith can grow in isolation, he is sorely mistaken.
For Christians in Acts 2, the Pentecost feast came at a special time. It was only 50 days after Jesus died and then was resurrected. They were still trying to make sense of what happened and what it would mean. This is why it was especially important for them to be together. Some of them were still shell shocked by the events of the Passover, and they did not have the benefit of doctrine and texts to shed light on its meaning. But they had each other and, as we will see in the subsequent verses, they also had God’s plan to empower them.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Take time to pray Psalm 96. Allow it to shape prayers of thanksgiving as you are reminded of who God is.
