Pentecost derives its name from the Jewish festival celebrating the harvest and the giving of the law on Mount Sinai fifty days after Passover. Fifty days after Easter, we celebrate the Holy Spirit as God’s presence within and among us. It is inspiring! In Acts the Spirit arrives in rushing wind and flame, bringing God’s presence to all people. In First Corinthians Paul reminds us that though we each have different capacities, we are unified in the one Spirit that equips us with these gifts, and in John Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit on his disciples, empowering them to continue his ministry. We celebrate that we too are inspired – given the breath of the Holy Spirit – and sent out to proclaim God’s triumphant love to all the world.
image: Descending dove stained glass. Copyright © Tobin Voggesser/Alamy Stock Photo. Used by permission.