When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. (Acts 2:1, NKJV)
Children like to go upwards. You see them tackling steep hills and scurrying up trees. The sense of height is thrilling for one so small. Riding in an aeroplane is exhilarating for most children or rising to the top of a Ferris wheel. Even lower elevations are alluring, such as barn lofts or house attics. There is something about going higher that motivates children. So, it is with God's children.
Jesus' disciples were motivated to go higher as they went to the upper room. One could claim this was not much of an ascent, just an upper floor. However, they were ascending to an extraordinary height in the spiritual sense. After His resurrection, Jesus had been with His disciples for forty days, teaching and preparing them for what was to come. He instructed them to gather together in Jerusalem as they waited for the promise of the Spirit. As God's children, they did so with joyful anticipation!
After leaving that upper room, God did mighty works through the disciples. But what happened in that room? There were 120 in attendance, a mixed group of women and men with different backgrounds and professions. Yet they shared a common identity and faith. They served a living Saviour who had ascended to the courts of Heaven. Due to this, they came together in one accord, in one place. Don't miss this point; it is vital!
After the cross, Jesus' disciples were scattered and in fear. Even before His death, the apostles were at odds, striving for lofty positions in Jesus' coming kingdom. But after His resurrection, the disciples' hearts were filled with boldness as their fear and pride fled. They put away their differences and their fight for supremacy. In the upper room, they reached new heights by humbling themselves before God. The disciples searched their souls and confessed their need and unbelief.
Instead of focusing on each other, their eyes turned heavenward to Christ and the mission set before them. God would supply the power; they needed to provide willing hearts. Their pursuit became furthering His kingdom. In so doing, the disciples of Jesus were preparing to ascend to lofty heights. The upper room experience would further sanctify the inner room of their hearts.
The upper room was ordinary! What transformed it into something extraordinary was prayer, unified and focused prayer. It is crucial to note that receiving the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost did not bring the disciples into unity. Instead, they became unified to receive the Spirit's abundance. Then they were able to go forth under the Spirit's power to unfurl the gospel.
Jesus is soon to return. Is He not calling us to that upper room experience beforehand? It means we are to humble ourselves, search our hearts, and put away our differences. Connect with other believers in purposeful, mission-oriented prayer. In childlike faith, go with them to that upper room. Go in one accord.
