Waiting… - Week Four
May 24, 2026
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Week 4 Expecting…
Context:
As we come to Pentecost we move from the digital metaphors of loading, typing and downloading to the physical — flesh, blood, fire — metaphors of birth and flame! Expectancy is not just A way of life, it is THE way of life. Nothing arrives fully formed. No flame bursts into life without heat and oxygen and fuel. Creation took time to form and so does new creation. Life takes time to grow and so does new life. Birth takes time and so does rebirth…
As it says in our Acts reading “Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.” Sometimes in the midst of the waiting comes the ‘Suddenly moment’ a pivotal breakthrough. What has been your experience of being surprised by God in your life? When has God thrown you a curveball? Discuss!
The group leader leads a quick discussion on any initial thoughts and reactions to these ideas before moving on to the next section: Introducing the readings.
Introducing the reading:
After the wait it comes all in a rush! This encounter almost defies description. It’s an incredible multi-sensory, multi-lingual scene when the Holy Spirit comes to enthuse and empower the followers of Jesus causing bafflement, scepticism and amazement.
Read: Acts 2: 1-21 (or the whole of chapter 2 if your group wants to go on a deep dive!)
A volunteer reads these Bible texts and then the group leader reads the following words from the Response to initiate a discussion on the readings and theme.
Response:
It is striking in this reading the interplay between fire and language because language is a bit like fire. Both spread quickly, are hard to control and have the power to both take life and to save it, to comfort us and shock us, warm us and burn us.
This new language of heaven, long expected and yet unexpected (Peter name checks Joel!) bursts into life and spreads like, well… wildfire!
The ‘Q:’ sections are questions that are thrown out to the group to initiate discussion on the passage and themes. Pause after each to discuss the ideas.
Q: What one word stood out to you in this reading? How could you carry that word with you in the week ahead and continue to reflect on it? Perhaps you could write it down somewhere or make a note of it on your phone.
Q: As a Connect group, how can this vivid scene of blessing and testimony, surprise and wonder, diversity and vibrancy — inspire you as a group? What new ways could you support one another or share God’s love in the world together? Why not list some practical suggestions.
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