Acts 2:1-4 (NRSV)
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Chapter 2When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. Verse 2And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Verse 3Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. Verse 4All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
Devotion
My first parish was in eastern Montana in the early 60's. The charismatic movement was alive across the country. I was blessed by three pastors in the area who made the text live. Don Ausland, Jim Hanson and Ed Roe changed my ministry because they helped me to expect the Holy Spirit to infiltrate places where the word of God was loved. I have seen the special gifts which the Spirit gives. They are not controlled by clergy nor hierarchy! What a joy to celebrate the explosion of God's wondrous surprises.
Prayer
God of wondrous surprises, we thank you for the special gifts you give to us by your Spirit. Amen.