"...we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?" (Acts 2:11-12)One of the scariest things about going to another country is the language barrier. Even when part of a mission trip experience, communicating with people, complete strangers, is difficult when you don't know the language. The thought of getting lost or struggling to make yourself understood by a waiter or taxi driver is frightening.
Imagine now, this great multitude, from every tribe and nation, all in the same location. They are all in town for the festival and find themselves in the presence of the Apostles and other believers. They are stunned because the crowds are able to understand everything that is being said. It doesn't matter that they are not from the same country or region; every word spoken is understood by all.
The gift the disciples received that day was miraculous, a fulfillment of one of Jesus' many promises. "I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high." (Luke 24:49) That power from on high was The Holy Spirit. This day of Pentecost united believers - they all heard the same message being preached - nothing was lost in the translation.
Such freedom was bestowed that day. Freedom to be united with the same teachings, the same language. "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." (2 Corinthians 3:17)
God works all kinds of miracles to spread the Good News, using many languages as he calls all kinds of people to become his followers. No matter what your race, color, nationality, or language, God speaks to you. Are you listening?
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