At a recent Bible study we were asked which 24 hours we would choose if we could go back to any biblical time to talk with people. I found this to be a difficult choice especially in a few minutes. Because of my recent personal studies, I chose the 24 hours including the time just before, during, and after the Holy Spirit was sent on Pentecost. My purpose would not be to view the amazing physical manifestations of the Holy Spirit. I would want to talk to and get to know some of the followers before and after the receiving of the Holy Spirit. How did it change them?

The clearest example we see is that of Peter. Even before receiving the Holy Spirit we see Peter as a bold leader. He stepped out of the boat to walk on water to Jesus (Matthew 14:29). He spoke out at first refusing to have Jesus wash his feet (John 13:8). Peter even tried to prevent Jesus from being arrested by cutting off the ear of the servant of the high priest (John 18:10). Yet that same night, three times he denied being a follower of Jesus, perhaps from fear of being arrested (John 13:38; 18:27). After receiving the Holy Spirit, he showed no fear of being arrested. He spoke boldly on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14-39).

John stood at the foot of the cross with Mary, Jesus’ mother, and two other women who had followed Jesus (John 19:24-27). John called himself the disciple whom Jesus loved. Was that a term of humility or did John feel that love so deeply before receiving the Holy Spirit and even more so afterwards? John seems to have love as the focal point in many of his writings.

I would want to meet all The Women Who Followed Jesus from Galilee. These women gave of their substance in supporting Jesus in His ministry (Luke 8:1-3; Matthew 27:55). They did not expect anything in return; they did not ask for positions in the Kingdom. They were among the followers “constantly in prayer” after Jesus’ death (Acts 1:14). There is little written about them after they received the Holy Spirit. I would like to know how these devout women were changed by the Holy Spirit.

For me, it seems easier to see the work of the Holy Spirit in others rather than in myself. Inwardly I know I have increased in peace, joy and the love of my Lord. I do pray to yield myself to the Holy Spirit in a manner which will lead others to the saving grace of my Lord, Jesus Christ.

May all of you reading this “receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off — for all whom the Lord our God will call” (Acts 2:38-39).