Senior Pastor, Rev. Clayton Peak
It's hard to believe that the Easter season is almost over. Remember what I said a few weeks ago about Easter being more than just a day, but a season that lasts 50 days? Well, this Sunday May 19 wraps up the Easter season when we celebrate Pentecost. According to Acts chapter 2, the disciples were gathered together on the 50th day after Christ's resurrection when the Holy Spirit showed up in a big way. First there was a loud noise that filled the whole room. And then, flames of fire rested on each of the disciples' heads. Suddenly the disciples began proclaiming the Good News of God, not in their native tongue of Aramaic, but in all sorts of different languages, languages completely unknown to them. All of those nearby could hear this Good News in their own native tongue.
Some bystanders were quite confused by what all was happening, while others thought the disciples were drunk. So Peter got up in front of the crowd to set Jesus of Nazareth was raised by God from the dead, and "God has made him both Lord and Messiah" (Acts 2:36). The book of Acts tells us that when the people heard Peter's words they were "cut to the heart." When the crowds asked what they needed to do to be saved, Peter told them to repent and be baptized. About 3,000 people responded and were added to the body of believers that day. From there, the newborn Church took off. "And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved" (Acts 2:47).
What an amazing day that must have been. I can only imagine what it was like. I always enjoy celebrating Pentecost Sunday. It is a great way to remember our heritage as the Church. I believe that the Holy Spirit continues to be poured out on God's people. Even though we may not receive the ability to perform signs and wonders like the disciples did, I believe we receive power from the Holy Spirit—power to live faithful, fruitful, and whole lives. Let's join together in celebrating this Good News!
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Clayton
Some bystanders were quite confused by what all was happening, while others thought the disciples were drunk. So Peter got up in front of the crowd to set Jesus of Nazareth was raised by God from the dead, and "God has made him both Lord and Messiah" (Acts 2:36). The book of Acts tells us that when the people heard Peter's words they were "cut to the heart." When the crowds asked what they needed to do to be saved, Peter told them to repent and be baptized. About 3,000 people responded and were added to the body of believers that day. From there, the newborn Church took off. "And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved" (Acts 2:47).
What an amazing day that must have been. I can only imagine what it was like. I always enjoy celebrating Pentecost Sunday. It is a great way to remember our heritage as the Church. I believe that the Holy Spirit continues to be poured out on God's people. Even though we may not receive the ability to perform signs and wonders like the disciples did, I believe we receive power from the Holy Spirit—power to live faithful, fruitful, and whole lives. Let's join together in celebrating this Good News!
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Clayton