June 4

Fire!

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 126:4-6 | 2 Samuel 22:21-23:23 | Acts 2:1-47 | Proverbs 16:19-20

Today’s Scripture Focus: Acts 2

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. [2] Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. [3] They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. [4] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them (Acts 2:1-4 NIV).

They took Jesus command seriously. They waited expectantly for the Holy Spirit to be poured out. They devoted themselves to praying together. And then it happened: Fire!

They were “all together in one place.” What were they doing? They were praying. They were waiting expectantly for the Spirit of God to be poured out on the church.

What was the result? A dynamic church was born:

A church that was fruitful in evangelism: “Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day” (41). “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (47).

A church where the gifts of the Spirit were in full operation (4: 17-19)

A church that continued to be devoted to prayer (along with teaching, fellowship and the breaking of bread).

A church that gave sacrificially (44,45).

A church that was filled with joyful praise and worship (47)

A church with a dynamic small group ministry (46 b)

A church that lived in awe, because God was present and active in their midst (43).

A church that was on fire!

May God do it again! May he do it in us as we “with one accord” devote ourselves to pray and wait expectantly.

Lord God, we wait upon you for the dynamic power and presence of your Spirit. We long for you to manifest your glory. Fill us afresh and anew with your Holy Spirit and fire. Amen.