Pentecost
“God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ!” Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do!” Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” Acts 2:36-38
Have you ever been “cut to the heart”? Once I demolished a new dehumidifier because I thought it was the old one. Cut to the heart! And it could have been worse.
Peter, at this “Fiftieth” Festival (“Pentecost”), straight-out told the Jewish opponents that they had crucified the promised Messiah, the Anointed One of God (the Christ). He told them that it was the risen Jesus who sent these unusual events that day. Many were cut to the heart! “What shall we do?!” Terror strikes the heart when one realizes he has violated God’s will. Peter spoke boldly. His boldness came from the Holy Spirit, working to bring the people to their knees. Likewise today, it takes firmness and boldness from the Holy Spirit to get proud sinners to see their dangerous perch. Reluctance in us to condemn sin is caused by reluctance to condemn self. Peter knew very well that he had denied Jesus. The Spirit helped him on Pentecost. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you call sin, sin.
The Holy Spirit also brought the Good News of forgiveness in Jesus. He gave Peter the words and the love to proclaim precious cleansing in the risen Jesus. “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” When sin is recognized and relief sought in Christ, God mercifully sends sin packing. Sin is “remitted” (forgiven) through Jesus’ victorious resurrection. Proclaiming the Gospel of forgiveness is a gift of the Holy Spirit. He leads you to do so without strings. Beware of: God forgives you “if you don’t do it again.” Rather, God forgives you; trust Him! Preach the Gospel boldly. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance!
Holy Spirit, help me to proclaim Law and Gospel in their simple Truth. Amen!