By Janné Grover, First Presidency

All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

In contrast to the Tower of Babel story that divided humanity by language (Genesis 11:1–9), the Pentecost story is one of bringing humanity together, of Unity in Diversity. The account of Pentecost expresses the work of the Holy Spirit as invitation to new life in community; a new creation where all are welcome, all belong, and all have voice and calling in God’s purposes. What a beautiful way to launch a movement…honoring the Worth of All Persons by representing each voice equitably!

I wonder what it felt like to be present in the Pentecost setting, to experience the diversity of languages and understand each voice. I envy the gifts and skills of those who communicate in multiple languages and value the work of skilled interpreters. The growing diversity of the World Church Leadership Council challenges us to provide equitable participation by amplifying and interpreting the voice of each participant. It is important to honor all voices in our shared work, our worship, and our singing.

“Lift Every Voice and Sing,” penned by civil rights activist, James Weldon Johnson, is an important anthem included in Community of Christ Sings (CCS 555). It is a prayer of gratitude for God’s faithfulness as well as a prayer for freedom from oppression. The act of singing is creative resistance to all that seeks to divide the human family, and what we sing matters. This song, along with others from diverse cultures in multiple languages, challenges us to lift the voices of all…not only in our singing, but in our pursuit of all the dimensions of Christ’s peace.

Lift every voice and sing till earth and heaven ring with the harmonies of liberty!

Prayer Phrase

“In his hand is the life of every living thing” (Job 12:10).

Trees

Watch the trees outside your window for a few moments. Close your eyes and meditate on Alma’s words about seeds and trees. If you were to plant and grow the Word of God in your heart, what tree might symbolically represent this process? Imagine a seed as it grows into a tree of life and blessing. Ask God to show you how to begin (see Alma 16:152–173).

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.