All of us have had the opportunity to see a stage play, at one time or the other. Usually they are divided into 2 acts. Act 1 introduces the characters, and builds the plot. Then there is the intermission, where you muse on what will happen in the 2nd act, use the restrooms and eat snacks. As the curtain rises on the Act 2, there is a high level of anticipation as the actors bring the story to a crescendo, and finally draw it all together at the end.
Let’s try to think of the life of the church, in the book of Acts, in these same theatrical terms. Act(s) 1 reminds us of the 3 years from the time Jesus began his public ministry, until his death, resurrection and ascension. Luke, the author, recalls the 4 gospels and the characters of the developing disciples. We also remember Jesus in action; training, teaching, healing, encouraging and preparing them for Act 2 when he would no longer be physically with them. Naturally, like the play’s audience, they were uncertain, and afraid of their future in the next act. Jesus assures them, about what will come, by saying, “ I am telling you these things now while I am still with you. But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” John 14: 25-26.
Fast forward to Jesus’ ascension, and this next period we will consider the intermission. We find the eleven disciples congregating in the upper room, their lobby, wondering what to do next. Without their leader, and before the arrival of the Advocate, all they could think to do was tidy up some loose ends, by choosing a replacement for Judas, and looking forlornly to the clouds. There is no script for them to follow during this time between the Acts. But, 50 days after the Passover, was the Jewish celebration of Pentecost. Jerusalem was once again brimming with devout people, bringing in an offering from their first crop to God. Wasn’t that convenient. God sure knows how to draw a crowd to witness his magnificence! And with this setting, the curtain goes up on Act 2. “On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.” Acts 2: 1-4. Wow, step aside Andrew Lloyd Webber, talk about bringing it all together, the Holy Spirit takes center stage for all to see! What an amazing difference. Once frightened men boldly glorifying God in a way that everyone present could understand. This was a finale worthy of a standing ovation, but in actuality, it was just the beginning.
Where do you find yourself in God’s production? Still being spoon-fed in Act(s) 1, twiddling your thumbs in the lobby, or boldly empowered by the Holy Spirit in Act(s) 2?
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