Many are waiting
The celebration of Pentecost (Shavuot) is the culmination of 49 days after Passover. This Jewish celebration is celebrated for 2 days in the Diaspora (Jews living outside of Israel) and 1 day for those celebrating in Jerusalem. As I had stated in previous blog the celebration of thanks to God for the spring grain harvest and the reception of The Law at Sinai.
Jewish believers from all around the world have gathered in Jerusalem for this celebration. Just note the different countries listed in Acts 2:9-11. There is representation from around the world for this important celebration.
So, the town of Jerusalem is a place of celebration and waiting. Jewish people are having candle lit dinners, staying up all night to read and study Torah or hearing the reading of The 10 commandments at The Temple. These Jewish followers are waiting for the day of Shavout. The follower's of Jesus are also waiting for what Jesus promised that would be Pentecost.
The difference is that the Jewish believers are waiting to celebrate something that has happened in the past. The follower's of Jesus are waiting to celebrate a promise of the present. This is the difference in Judaism and Christianity. Christians certainly celebrate and appreciate the past of God's activity with Israel but we wait and celebrate what Jesus has promised.
REFLECT: Does your and my waiting related to the past or the future?