05-26-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 26, 2023
This Sunday is Pentecost Sunday, the Birthday of the Church. First of all, wear something red, pink, scarlet, ruby, wine, cherry, or whatever else might give a hint of fire. Yes, this is the Sunday when we celebrate the Holy Spirit igniting the church (Body of Christ). We read in Acts 2:3-4, "The disciples saw what seemed to be individual flames of fire alighting on each one of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit enabled them to speak." The image of fire can be frightening, but it is also a powerful tool. Its heat can reshape something that appeared unchangeable; remove all impurities; make food digestible; create warmth… (and the list continues). Fire brings about change in so many ways, and I believe it is also true of the Holy Spirit. Change is central to the Pentecost story—change within both the individual and the community. And it wasn’t simply a one-time thing. It is still happening!

​Bring me into the Pentecost experience, O Spirit of Power and Change. Reshape me and make me into the best version of myself as I seek to serve you in the best way possible. Amen.