Filled with the Spirit

Scripture (NRSV):

“When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit…”— Acts 2:1–4a

Reflection:

Pentecost marks the moment when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the followers of Jesus—a divine spark igniting a global movement of faith, unity, and boldness. The disciples, once fearful and uncertain, were transformed into courageous witnesses. The wind, the fire, the voices—all were signs of God’s presence breaking into the world in a new and powerful way.

But Pentecost is not only a historical event; it’s an ongoing invitation. The same Spirit who empowered the early church lives in us today. We may not hear rushing wind or see flames above our heads, but the Spirit is no less alive—nudging us toward love, inspiring us with truth, and equipping us to carry the message of Christ into every corner of our lives.

Too often, we wait for perfect conditions to act in faith. But Pentecost reminds us that God shows up in the middle of waiting, uncertainty, and fear—and fills ordinary people with extraordinary power.

Today’s Invitation:

Pause and ask the Holy Spirit to fill you anew. Where do you need boldness? Where do you need clarity or courage? Let today be a Pentecost moment in your own heart. Speak kindness, seek justice, love boldly, and trust that the Spirit is already at work within you.

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Fall afresh on me today. Breathe new life into the places where I feel tired, fearful, or unsure. Just as you filled the disciples with courage and fire, fill me with your power and peace. Help me to speak your truth with love, to serve others with joy, and to live each day guided by your wisdom. Let your flame burn bright in my heart, and let it shine into the world around me. In Jesus' name, Amen.