Sunday is a perilous day to be present in the church. One could argue that every week presents its own risks, but today, in particular, the danger looms large. It is the day of Pentecost, occurring 50 days after the joyous celebration of Easter. On this day, we gather for worship, entering this sacred space, taking our seats, engaging in melodic hymns, listening to readings, drawing close to one another, offering prayers together, partaking in communal meals, and exchanging gestures of peace. In essence, we fulfill all the expected rituals. However, today is unlike any other day. Today, we celebrate the arrival of the Holy Spirit.
To fully appreciate this significance, one must revisit the accounts of the Holy Spirit’s actions in the book of Acts and the gospel of John. The arrival of the Holy Spirit is an extraordinary event that cannot be taken lightly. The Holy Spirit does not quietly slip into the back pew of the sanctuary; when the Holy Spirit makes an entrance, it is known to all. The Holy Spirit possesses vitality and power. This is what makes it dangerous.
I implore you to be vigilant this weekend because the Holy Spirit brings life. The Holy Spirit is capable of transforming your expectations and stirring your soul. So, brace yourself for an encounter with the divine. Open your heart and mind to the possibility of being moved and inspired by the Holy Spirit’s presence among us.
As we gather to honor Pentecost, let us embrace the uncertainty and the potential for transformation that accompanies it. Let us relinquish our preconceived notions and surrender to the power of the Holy Spirit. May this day be a reminder that our faith is not confined to traditions and rituals but is a living, breathing force that has the ability to ignite our spirits and propel us into new realms of understanding and connection. Embrace the danger, for within it lies the promise of a profound encounter with the divine.
