twenty brethren.

They must have been wrought to an intense pitch of anticipation, for
they knew that their waiting was to be short, and they knew, at least
partially, what they were to receive, namely, 'power from on high,'
or 'the promise of the Father.' Probably, too, the great Feast, so
near at hand, would appear to them a likely time for the fulfilment
of the promise.

So, very early on that day of Pentecost, they betook themselves to
their usual place of assembling, probably the 'large upper room,'
already hallowed to their memories; and in each heart the eager
question would spring, 'Will it be to-day?' It is as true now as it
was then, that the spirits into whom the Holy Spirit breathes His
power must keep themselves still, expectant, prayerful. Perpetual
occupation may be more loss of time than devout waiting, with hands
folded, because the heart is wide open to receive the power which
will fit the hands for better work.

It was but 'the third hour of the day' when Peter stood up to speak;
it must have been little after dawn when the brethren came together.
How long they had been assembled we do not know, but we cannot doubt
how they had been occupied. Many a prayer had gone up through the
morning air, and, no doubt, some voice was breathing the united
desires, when a deep, strange sound was heard at a distance, and
rapidly gained volume, and was heard to draw near. Like the roaring
of a tempest hurrying towards them, it hushed human voices, and each
man would feel, 'Surely now the Gift comes!' Nearer and nearer it
approached, and at last burst into the chamber where they sat silent
and unmoving.