One of Jesus’ closest followers relates the account.
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes down on you; then you are to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, yes, even to the ends of the earth” (Acts. 1:8). This we believed with our whole being. We decided to return to the city and wait in the upstairs room where we were staying. All of us—Peter, James, John, and several others among Jesus’ closest followers, including Mary and other women–waited for the promised power. As we prayed, we felt more confident that the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Jesus, would strengthen and direct us.
“Suddenly from up in the sky there came a noise like a strong, driving wind [and] tongues as of fire appeared which parted and came to rest on each of them” (Luke 2:2-3). We began to proclaim the wonders of God in thanksgiving and praise. Without realizing it, we were speaking in foreign languages. Those in the crowd understood what we were saying. Incredible! Astonishing! Dumfounded we looked at each other. What did it mean? We looked to Mary whose face radiated the presence of God. And we looked to Peter whom Jesus had made the head of our band. What would Peter do? He stood up to calm the crowd: “Listen! We are not drunk. Not at all. Remember what Isaiah said about all nations being instructed in God’s ways. This is that time. God has poured out his spirit upon all humanity. God is working wonders and signs through Jesus the Nazorean, who was crucified but death could not hold him down. God has raised him up, and we are his witnesses.” May all of you “know beyond doubt that God has made both Lord and Messiah this Jesus whom you crucified” (Acts 2:36). Three thousand received the gift of the Holy Spirit that day.
