The coming of the Holy Spirit was not just one random occasion. The Holy Spirit is part of
the Trinity of God and has been present and active in our relationship with God from the beginning. We read of how the Spirit was active in creation (Gen 1:1-2), and since then, the Spirit has sought to live in you and me (1 Cor 3:16).
Throughout the Old Testament, we hear the Spirit speaking through David and the prophets as God has encouraged the people to live in communion with him. It was the Spirit who hovered over Mary. She conceived Jesus (Lk 1:35). The Spirit descended on Jesus at his baptism (Lk 3:22). The Holy Spirit we read about at Pentecost is not a new phenomenon
introduced by God. Rather it is a witness to what happens when God’s people are collectively open to God. It shows the power of God moving, anointing, and interacting with those who willingly invite God into their lives.
The New Testament gives many examples of what happens when we recognise God through the Spirit, interacting with us. Stephen finds the courage to challenge (Acts 7:51). Peter overcomes his prejudices towards Gentiles (Acts 10:19;11:12). Paul and Barnabas take that ministry further (Acts13:24). Great meetings of the Church are guided (15:28). The
possibilities are endless, individually and collectively.
The early church was Spirit-guided, and the people who
chose to live in a Christ-centered community were acutely aware of the Spirit at work within them. The Spirit gave them the language of discipleship and the courage, wisdom, insight and power to use it for the good of God’s kingdom. The Spirit will move us for as long as we live within the truth of God’s saving light and love. As we live in this intimacy with God, we come to discern what God created us to be or to do and then go out and live that with joy.
What is the deepest desire of your heart today?
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
