Pentecost Sunday is a favourite feast. I like the images of peace, wind, forgiveness, and gifts. Mostly I like that Christ has promised us this great gift of the Holy Spirit that is given today in rich readings that heal all of us.  Jesus appears once more to his followers, still locked inside the room, filled with fears and doubts. There is no chastisement. Instead he greets them with peace be with you, not once but twice. He could have said so many other words, but chooses to bring the tenderness of grace to their spirits with assuring them that all is forgiven. No anxiety is needed, only deep peace. He points no fingers, assigns no blame, and reaches out with a healing balm to those locked in fear and grief.

In the Second Reading, the gifts that are given through the Spirit allow us to do the work of the Kingdom. By greeting His followers with peace, Jesus allows them to shake off the shame that must have also bond them to not continuing the ministries they had. This Body of Christ–of which we are part of–is blessed with a variety of gifts and of vocations. This Feast allows us to remember that God has given us all we need for the ministries we choose. A violent wind, flames like fire, and the ability to do something that seemed impossible all point to the power of the Holy Spirit. We must humbly accept the gifts bestowed upon us and trust that God will do the unlikely through us.

What gifts are you grateful for today?

Peace,

Suzanne