When the day of Pentecost came . . . they saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.

— Acts 2:1-3

Many of us view rules or laws negatively. Speed limits can seem to bog us down, and who wants to pay extra taxes? Even God’s law can feel restrictive at times. But, of course, all of these things are important.The Feast of Weeks—taking place seven weeks after the Feast of Firstfruits (see Nov. 20)—celebrated the wheat harvest, and it became an occasion to thank God for the gift of his law. Yes, that’s right—as the Israelites lived in the presence of a holy God, his law taught them how to live in a way that was pleasing to the One who had redeemed them.Of course, Israel’s struggle was that obedience was not just difficult—it was impossible. And the same is true for us. Look back over the past day or so, for example. Have you kept from saying unkind words? Have you resisted every bitter thought? Have you avoided the subtle sins of greed and impatience? Not one of us can obey God’s law perfectly.On the Feast of Weeks, God sent his Spirit to renew us in terms of celebrating the harvest as well as the law. The Spirit empowers us for the greater harvest that God has prepared, bringing people from every nation into his kingdom! And the Spirit transforms us to act with true obedience from renewed hearts. If you have received Jesus as your Savior, his Holy Spirit is shaping you for mission and obedience!

Father, help us to live with glad obedience to you, in gratitude for all that you have done for us in Jesus. Amen.