Words Heard Round the World

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Acts 2:5-6: Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language.

We know what happened. The Holy Spirit arrived in the world with a great rush of sound, like a violent wind storm that was happening. He filled those in the room with Himself. Now that Peter, the rest of the Apostles, along with every one else in the room were filled with a power previously unknown to them. They were no longer timid and hiding as a result of fear. They were bold and fearless, ready to proclaim to the world the saving grace and love of God through Jesus.

However, the world wasn't yet at their doorstep. The sound of the rushing and violent wind pulled the world to them. God the Holy Spirit brought the world to the doorstep of the Church. And the Church was about to speak words that were going to be heard around the world.

Isn't that what God is doing today? Right now? Of course He is. God the Holy Spirit is bringing people to our doorstep so that they will hear us tell them about the grace and love of God through Jesus. They will hear how, because of their sins and sinfulness, they crucified Jesus. They will hear how Jesus, by means of His crucifixion and resurrection, gave them forgiveness and new life. They will hear, "Repent and believe the Good news" of Jesus' life and righteousness.

The world is here right now. The "rushing wind" is Christian education through the school. It is the women's Bible study, quilting group, men's fellowship, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School Ratio Christi, Youth, Evangelism events, and of course, Worship. These are ways that the Holy Spirit is using to draw people in. It's time to tell the words to be heard round the world. Father God, lead us to express our faith to the world at our doorstep.