Pentecost

We celebrate Pentecost Sunday.  When we think of Pentecost, we usually think only of the Holy Spirit that descended on the community that day.

But we can broaden our understanding a bit and think of Pentecost as a gift from God to us.  In John 14:18-20, Jesus says, “I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you.  In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live.  On that day, you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.”  Pentecost is a continuation of the Lord’s presence.

Acts, chapter 2, contains the story of the Holy Spirit coming on Pentecost.  The Holy Spirit came with “a sound like the blowing of a violent wind (it) came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.  They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.  All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”

Jesus, when he spoke with his disciples, told them that, “the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” (John 14:26)

Just the other day, I had the pleasure of spending time with five good friends.  All of us were brought up in the same Lutheran church with parents that were close friends, so we have much in common.  The Holy Spirit was alive in our conversation and love for one another.  What a gift from God that we could share time together and experience His active presence!

The gift of Pentecost not only brought to us the Holy Spirit.  It also brought with it the widening of believers in the truth of Jesus and the everlasting power of God.  This year, when we celebrate Pentecost, let’s all praise God for this wonderful gift.