Life Changing Moments – May 24, 2021

Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. . . . All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2:2,4

Life Changing Moments

Big, life-changing events can happen in a moment. Most tornadoes, for instance, last less than ten minutes; but in those short moments, a lot can happen. On May 22, 2011, at 5:34 P.M. a tornado touched down just west of Joplin, Missouri. Thirty-eight minutes later 8,000 buildings were destroyed, 1,000 people were injured, and 161 lives were lost.

Some of us know what it’s like to lose just about everything. In a moment, the flames, floods, or fierce winds can take away our possessions. In a moment, a doctor can click on that bright X-ray panel and our life can change. In a moment, that seemingly harmless temptation can snap its jaws around us like a bear trap and before you know it, we’re getting comfortable with attitudes, using words, or walking down paths no child of God ever should.

Bad, destructive things can happen in a moment. Good, beautiful things can happen too. On that first Pentecost, it happened very suddenly. There was a sound of a violent wind and the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit. They in turn began telling others about the wonders of God and within moments, many other people were also filled with the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit has used some special people and special moments in our lives to introduce us to Jesus and enable us to put our trust in him. What a moment it is when the sign of the cross is made on the head and heart when a child or adult is baptized into God’s family. What a moment it is when a youngster sits on grandma’s lap and hears about the Savior’s love. What a moment it is when a weary soul comes to Jesus for rest, when the sin-laden conscience is assured that Jesus has taken away all sin.

Even as you read or listen to this devotion, the Holy Spirit is working in your heart to calm and comfort you. What a wonderful moment!

Prayer:
Dear Lord, as I approach this day, help me to value every moment you give me. Amen.