The Bible is full of “mountaintop experiences.” In fact, did you know that’s where the expression comes from? Not all of those experiences actually happen on mountains though.

One of the most formative experiences of the people of God was the Day of Pentecost. Pentecost was an old celebration that had been passed down and celebrated by Isrealites for generations. Then one time after Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection God moved in a mysterious and amazing way. He gave the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The giving of this gift was a mountain top experience, though it happened in Jerusalem. This event was a mountaintop experience because it was a defining moment in the life of what would become the church. In fact, many people regard Pentecost as the birthday of the church.

People dramatically experienced three things when God gave his Spirit at Pentecost: unity, a new and miraculous experience of God, and a sense of amazement. This experienced refreshed the people of God as mountain top experiences often do.

At the time this sermon was recorded, few people seem to be feeling like their on a mountain top.  Here in the United States and in many countries around there is sharp conflict rather than unity. Polarization rather than peace. As Americans feel tremendous racial tension, rather than feeling like God is doing something new, many feel as if we are trapped in old patterns. Depression, discouragement, and weariness is dragging many people down, rather than a sense of amazement, inspiration, and awe.

BUT, God is still God. Even while we are yet in the valley we can connect to God, so that we kind find in the quiet of our hearts a mountaintop perspective. 

Come explore with us these truths and themes in today’s worship.