We Hear Them


"And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. They were completely amazed. 'How can this be?' they exclaimed. 'These people are all from Galilee, and yet we hear them speaking in our native languages!' ... They stood there amazed and perplexed. 'What can this mean?' they asked each other." Acts 2:4-12

On a handful occasions now, I've found myself in a country where I was completely unable to speak their language. As one who so enjoys hearing other peoples' stories, I found it supremely frustrating. I was suffering from verbal claustrophobia. I started praying begging God for the ability to speak their language, but he chose not to give it to me. Instead, he allowed the translators to exercise their talents to accomplish what needed to be done.  

Our verses for today, however, record a moment where God did in fact grant people the ability to speak previously unknown to them languages! Wow! It was absolutely shocking to the people who spoke those languages. Once God got their attention, he then had Peter explain to them what was happening. Abbreviated version: God's Spirit is bearing witness to God's word and God's Son, Jesus. 3000 said yes to Jesus that day!

What language is the Holy Spirit enabling you to speak these days? Is it compassion, service or hospitality? Is it generosity? Is it forgiveness, empathy, or encouragement? The language of God's love is understood by every person in every tribe in every nation. Who is hearing you and asking, "What can this mean?" Perhaps today is the day those around us exclaim, "We hear them!"

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