Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?
Acts 2:5-8 (NIV)
The Holy Spirit empowers us to bridge barriers.
At Pentecost, the Spirit wasted no time in breaking barriers to welcome others into God’s family. He empowered the disciples to cross the language barrier, enabling Jews from across the diaspora to hear the gospel in their own tongue. Speaking to someone in a language they understand is an act of deep hospitality. It reminds us that the Bible is available in our own languages today because Spirit-filled followers of Jesus believed everyone should encounter God in words they can understand.
This was only the beginning. The Spirit would later lead the disciples to cross cultural, economic, and social boundaries, sending them as witnesses to the ends of the earth. Notice too that the disciples did not initiate this miracle—it was born from God’s own desire for all people to hear and experience His presence. Today, God still chooses to use us to bridge the many barriers of our world. As we yield to the Spirit, He may lead us in ways that surpass our expectations or even our understanding.
Who are the people across barriers in your life that the Spirit may be inviting you to reach out to and include in God’s family? Pray for a heart that is sensitive and yielded to the Spirit’s desires. Ask Him to empower you to reflect God’s hospitality in ways that bridge divides and reveal His love.
Holy Spirit, thank You for breaking barriers at Pentecost so that all could hear the good news. I confess that at times I shrink back from reaching across divides of language, culture, or comfort. Fill me with Your love and courage to reflect the heart of Jesus. Use me as an instrument of hospitality, that through my words and actions, others may see Your glory and know they are welcome in Your family. Lead me to those You are drawing, and empower me to obey. Amen.
“Mountains bow down as we lift Him up…”
— No Other Name, Hillsong Worship