We will celebrate Pentecost on May 24. Pentecost is often known as the birthday of the church. It is one of those amazing stories for us in the church (and maybe a weird story for those looking in). Jews from every nation were living in Jerusalem. A sound like a violent wind came from heaven and filled the house where the believers happened to be gathered. Flaming divided tongues appeared and rested on each of them. These believers were filled with the Holy Spirit and at once were able to speak and understand different languages. A crowd gathered and was amazed. Others were less amazed and thought these folks were drunk. And then Peter arose and preached. “They are not drunk.” he said. Quoting the prophet Joel and then King David, Peter summarizes Jesus’ life and ministry to the crowd. When all is said and done, about 3,000 new persons were added to faith.

Miraculous. Weird. Amazing. Unbelievable. Which of these words describes Pentecost for you? Do you have a different word?

God has always sought to bring faith to the world. The Bible describes many incredulous ways that happened. The Bible also describes many mundane ways God has worked also. Think about the woman who puts a penny in the offering plate or the tax collector who humbly prays. The stories are just as, if not more, impactful as miracles and wind and tongues of fire.

I would even be so bold to say that multiple small acts of faith lay the foundation for something “big” to even be able to occur or to have more impact. In other words, the small things matter.

So, do not let the unkindness in the world keep you from being faithfully kind. Do not let others’ pessimism give you permission to be less than optimistic. Do not be selfish and mean as you see others. Be selflessly Christ-like. Open doors. Smile. Wave someone through the intersection. Tip extravagantly. Resist writing that social media response. Forgive someone. Forgive yourself. Love God, neighbor, and self. 

And if enough of us Jesus followers live like this, maybe the world will think we too are drunk. When in fact, we will just be spirit-filled.

Hope to see you soon!

Peace,

Kelly