A Rushing Mighty Wind

Today's Reading: 1 Chronicles 27-28; Acts 2:1-24


Acts 2:2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.

The day of Pentecost was part of the Jewish feast of harvest. It was created to celebrate and honor God for His provision and in this case it fell 50 days after Jesus had risen from the dead. Just before Jesus ascended into heaven He told the disciples to go and wait for the promise of the Father. They waited patiently spending time in quiet prayer in anticipation for what would come. Of course none of them had any idea what to expect. Jesus didn't tell them any particulars only that they should wait for the promise. What gets me is the suddenness of the moment. There wasn't a gentle lead in or even a subtle cool breeze like the ones that announced His presence in the Garden of Eden or the still small voice that whispered in Elijah's aching heart. This time God announced the coming of the Holy Spirit with a sound that roared in their ears and hearts.

This was the dawning of a new day, a new paradigm that would set them on a collision course with destiny. The powerful sound in their ears became a sign that a new power had emerged and been poured out on them. A power that would change their lives and propel them headlong into history. The Holy Spirit had come and now through His power the disciples would become preachers the gospel to the world and the Church would be given life. This same Holy Spirit is still active today in the Church and breathes life into everyone He touches. Take a deep breath of His presence and be filled.