Receive the Holy Spirit

“There came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind … then there appeared to them tongues as of fire …” (Acts 2:1-3).

The Feast of Pentecost marks the end of the Easter Season. The setting of today’s Gospel is a continuation of Jesus’ last discourse to his disciples, given to them on the night before he died. He promises to send the Spirit, an advocate, the Spirit of truth.

The Spirit unleashes a twofold energy within us: the Spirit draws us into Christ, and sends us out to proclaim Christ to the world. Jesus breathes on the disciples and ushers in a new creation, enabling the disciples to take up Jesus’ work. Clearly, the gift of the Spirit is for the sake of Jesus’ mission: “so I send you … receive the Holy Spirit.” Pentecost is not simply an event that took place once. Pentecost – the coming of the Spirit – happens each time we do the works of God and manifest the Spirit for the benefit of all. Through the indwelling of the Spirit we are able to carry on Jesus’ saving mission. For the Spirit recreates us in Jesus’ image, and empowers us to live the Gospel faithfully.

We are powerful beings in Christ. How do you use “the power of the Spirit” on behalf of others, in service to others? Do you see the connection between your service to others, and making the Kingdom of God alive and present, now?

On the header, photo by Daniel Gregoire on Unsplash.