As defined by the church, a language used to communicate with God - referenced in the bible several times.
I am the grandkid of a "PK." My grandmother was a preacher's kid. My father's mother shared stories with me about our family's connection with the church and my family's religious beliefs.
I remember Sundays in church. I looked forward to listening to the choir and my candy. Every Sunday grandma would let me have lifesavers candy and chiclets gum to keep me from getting fidgety during the sermon. But when the time came that the ladies of the church would stand up and start shouting and passing out... Whoa! I'd get in trouble for laughing so hard. What was wrong with them I'd ask my grandmother? I'd never seen my grandma act in such a way. Well my grandma's explanation never resonated with me.
I've always communicated with God in English! Simple as that. However, yesterday was a learning experience for me. Why? Because I was surrounded by wailing women! And it was amazing! Yes they were speaking in tongues. No, I had no clue as to what was being said. But the atmosphere was electric! I went thinking there would be a group of women and that we would hold hands and pray together for the well being of our families. Nope!
As soon as I entered the room my body felt warm and secure. I immediately lifted my arms and tears started to flow and I prayed!!! Boy, did I pray. This feeling was not new to me but the intensity was overwhelming. I had never felt this feeling this strong!
Once I stepped back and took in my environment I thought of the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem - I thought of images of Muslims kneeling face down in reverence to God. I felt humbled and blessed. I felt God's presence.
Later, as I ate lunch with my auntie I shared my experience. She smiled and said, "that's the Holy Spirit baby..."
My takeaway from this experience is that speaking in tongues is an individual's personal choice. I have been filled with the Holy Spirit throughout my life without speaking in tongues but now... I GET IT!
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