Speaking Bravely – May 29, 2023

Read: Acts 2:1-21

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
Acts 2:1-4

Speaking Bravely

Family Devotion – May 29, 2023

Devotion based on Acts 2:1-4

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Back in 2006, Google launched a service called Google Translate. This service allows you to type or speak words in one language and then translates them into a language of your choice. Today, they have over 130 languages available, and up to 100 billion words are translated each day!

Two thousand years before there was an internet, God gave his followers the special ability to speak in languages they had never learned. This happened on the day we call Pentecost. The events of Pentecost took place 50 days after Jesus rose from the dead and 10 days after he ascended into heaven. The disciples had been waiting for Jesus to keep his promise to send them the Holy Spirit. God revealed the Holy Spirit in a remarkable way. First, they heard a strong wind that filled the room they were in. Next, little flames of fire came and rested on them. Finally, they were able to speak in new languages. People from Asia, Africa, and Europe were amazed they could understand the preaching of the disciples in their own language as they taught them about their risen Savior, Jesus.

The sights and sounds of Pentecost were truly amazing. What was more unbelievable was the change in Jesus’ disciples. Ever since Jesus died, they were fearful and hiding. But now, filled with the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, they spoke bravely about all Jesus had done to save them. The Holy Spirit didn’t only work in the hearts of those disciples, he also worked in the hearts of those who heard their message. On that day over 3,000 people were added to what we call the Christian church.

God continues to send his Holy Spirit to believers today. Each time we gather at church we might not hear a strong wind, or have little flames over our head, or listen to our pastor speaking in different languages, but we can be sure the Holy Spirit is there. The Spirit is working to create and strengthen faith through the Word of God that is being proclaimed. Even though at times we might be afraid or hesitant to tell others about Jesus, he gives us the courage. Be brave, be bold, and be excited to share the news that Jesus is risen!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Risen Savior, we thank you for pouring out your Holy Spirit on that first Pentecost. Help us to be brave and courageous like your apostles as we have opportunity to tell others about you. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • Name two special things people saw and heard on Pentecost.
  • Name two special people who teach you about Jesus.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • What makes you afraid to talk to someone about Jesus?
  • Who are the three persons of the Trinity? Which one wants to help you overcome your fear of talking about Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Pentecost is called the third great festival of the Church, along with Christmas and Easter. Why is Pentecost so important?
  • Try this: Type a favorite Bible passage into Google Translate and listen to it in different languages you have never heard before.

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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