On Pentecost the fierce love of the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples of Jesus (Acts 2:1-21). Jesus also talked about the Holy Spirit as the living water poured out for those who thirst for him (John 7:37-39). Those who declare that Jesus is Lord have received a manifestation of this Spirit given for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:3b-13). Jesus’ original disciples received the Holy Spirit after his resurrection and were sent out to continue Jesus’ mission (John 20:19-23). The glory of God is revealed as all of creation is renewed and purified through the power of the Holy Spirit (Psalm 104:24-34, 35b).
The Ascended Christ Sends His Spirit and Makes us One
Before ascending into heaven, Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to empower his followers until his return (Acts 1:6-14). This promise gives us the strength to pray and follow God, even in the midst of suffering and anxiety. These things may last for a little while, but we are encouraged to stand firm knowing that Christ himself has prayed for us (1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11). Though orphans, he has promised us a home (Psalm 68: 1-10; 32-35). He has granted us eternal life and the fellowship of other believers, even while we wait (John 17:1-11).
The true God has been revealed to the whole world through the life and death of Jesus Christ (Acts 17:22-31). Because Jesus is Lord, we are blessed, even when we suffer (1 Peter 3:13-22). God cares for us and listens to our prayers, so we offer our gratitude and confess what he has done for us (Psalm 66:8-20). We find freedom and take joy in his commandments through the power of the Holy Spirit (John 14:15-21).
We are not promised an easy life and may even suffer for our faith (Acts 7:55-60). Call out to God in the midst of shame and confusion, trusting in God’s steadfast love (Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16). Jesus is the cornerstone of salvation who was rejected on our behalf. Through Him, we have received mercy so that we may proclaim the mighty acts of him who has called us out of darkness into light (1 Peter 2:2-10). He is the way, truth, and life who has promised to prepare a place for us in the presence of the Father (John 14:1-14).