“And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?  Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.” Acts 2:12-13

Jews from all over the world were greeted with an amazing miracle on the Day of Pentecost. They heard men preaching the gospel in the languages of their various native countries. This had to be an amazing and almost unbelievable experience!

What I find interesting is that Luke records two basic reactions to this marvelous event. Some desired to figure out what it all meant, while others dismissed it as the acts of a bunch of drunks.

And isn’t that basically what happens today?

Jesus called on His disciples (which includes us!) to let our light shine before men. In that charge, Jesus was not telling us to show off our faith. He is telling us that He has made us the light of the world, and we ought to act like it. When we do this, there are really only two possible reactions to expect.

One reaction is what Jesus said would happen. Others will see the good things we are doing and glorify God for the miracle of spiritual life He has given us by grace. Some may not understand why we are acting the way we are; but something inside them tells them it is a good thing, and they want to know more about it. They are asking the same question as those in Acts — “What meaneth this?” When this happens, we need to be ready to give an answer for our hope (1st Peter 3:15)!

The other reaction that people give is exactly the opposite. They think we are fools for being nice or that we are ignorant Bible followers who are just weird. Jesus also taught how to react to this mocking:

“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” (Matthew 5:11-12)

Realize that you may be considered weird by the world, but you are in good company. You are in fellowship with the Redeemer, Jesus Christ. So, embrace your “weirdness” and glorify God in every step, with every word, and with every breath!