Gale force wind

Today’s Reading: John 11:49b-52 (NIV)

49 Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! 50 You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.” 51 He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation, 52 and no only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one.

Acts 2:1-4 (The Message)

When the Feast of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Without warning there was a sound like a strong wind, gale force – no one could tell where it came from. It filled the whole building. Then, like a wildfire, the Holy Spirit spread through their ranks, and they started speaking in a number of different languages as the Spirit prompted them.

Good morning!

I listened intently last night as the wind whipped around our church parsonage in St. Charles, Missouri. I wondered if we might blow away in the eye of the storm. I can sleep through almost anything, but last night’s storms kept me up all night long. I’ve learned to pay close attention to the Lord as He speaks in the wind and rain. I’ve been praying today for the families who lost loved ones last night in the tornadoes that demolished homes and businesses Oklahoma and Southwest Missouri. Will we find new life in these gale force winds?

How the Father uses every heart for kingdom work is simply amazing to me. His plan and purpose is sure. He is greater than anything I can understand or even begin to comprehend in this life. Trusting Him completely is a lifelong process; it is a journey I willingly choose to walk. I don’t understand the wind and rain, death and destruction, grief and loss. I do not understand why we experience the dark night of the soul; yet, I believe the Father brings forth new life even in the midst of fear and grief. Caiaphas prophesied of Jesus’ death and resurrection, and how He would save a fallen world. Did Caiaphas realize the words he had spoken had a much greater meaning? I seriously doubt it. Do we speak prophetically today and realize what we say may have an even deeper meaning? Our intent may be completely different from that of the Lord God Almighty, and yet He chooses to use you and me for His greater plan and purpose. Don’t you find this absolutely incredible?

Long ago, Christ followers were gathered together all in one place, with thousands who did not believe or know the Lord Jesus Christ. Without warning, a wind kicked up out of nowhere and they could tell from where it came. Like wildfire, the power of the Holy Spirit spread among the people and they began speaking in different languages as it prompted them to tell the story. The wind and flames dance around us today, and we are reminded of how God reveals Himself just when we least expect it. Even in the midst of fear and death, we can see His glory, touch His face, and feel His holy breath upon our lives. Caiaphas plotted for Jesus to die. God knew His Son would rise again. People were prophesying in different languages and all who were there, understood God’s love in their own native tongue. The Word emerged from the wind and flame. Can you hear Him speaking to your heart today? Won’t you come and worship with me at Faith Church? Come and listen to the wind as it speaks to our hearts today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

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© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

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