Pentecost Sunday

Pentecost Sunday Readings

Reflection on Scripture

From the many readings from the acts of the Apostles, during the Easter season, we are told that they were gathered in the upper room for fear of the Jews. Jesus told them to prepare for another was coming who would sanctify them in spirit and truth.

Today, that promise from Jesus is fulfilled. We will no longer hear of the Apostles gathered in the upper room because the upper room is empty. Through the pouring out of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, they were renewed and when they left the upper room, the body of Christ, the church, was formed.

The Holy Spirit is the Lord and giver of all life. So, it goes to reason if we are called to a holy life, to a life in the Spirit, then it would proceed from the grace provided by the Holy Spirit. Paul tells us in the second reading today that we cannot profess that Jesus is Lord except in the Holy Spirit.

Yet the world has found a way to tune out the grace of the Holy Spirit. Humankind has become its own deity and considers themselves equal or greater than God. There thoughts, deeds, and actions are predicated upon their own design and fostered within their minds. The Holy Spirit has not left us abandoned. However, in turn we have abandoned the need for God or the need for the Holy Spirit.

The gifts needed to build up the Body of Christ are dispensed by the Holy Spirit. The gifts are not given to be horded or used for a solitary purpose of the person receiving them. The gifts are distributed among the faithful for the building up of the Body and to bring all people to salvation in the same Spirit in which we find life and purpose.

It only takes a spark to get the fire going and once ignited, the single spark becomes a glowing flame of brightness for others to see. We are on a journey, and the journey is only for a short time. How do you want to complete the journey? Hiding out in a pew, practicing being pious and holy, or looking for the affirmation of people to tell you, you are “heaven” material. Today, at the end of Mass, you will be told to “go forth, glorifying the Lord by your life”. Allow the Spirit to ignite the spark in your heart and go forth glowing hot from the radiance of God’s love. We will not leave this earth as whimpering servants or life crows on the fence. No, we will go forth. We will leave this room empty. We will soar like an eagle. We will not rest or grow weary. We will not stop until all humankind is brought to the fullness of salvation. Are you ready for the task?

May the Holy Spirit continue to pour out His grace upon you. Happy Birthday to the Body of Christ,

Deacon Phil