". . . you are clothed with power from on high." (Lk 24:46-53)
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be "clothed with power from on hign?" Just think about it for a moment. Would this power be loose-fitting or snug? Would it be warm and cozy? Would it be electric as the image above suggests?
It is funny when we think of the images Jesus gives us in the Gospels. Sometimes we think of all kinds of bells and whistles, but more often than not, the power Jesus is talking about will be an inner reality that is imperceptible to everyone but the individual. Think about the last time you knew the Holy Spirit was with you, guiding you and, or strengthening you. Most probably, only you knew that gift was being given to you.
There are times, though, when we do get to glimpse the power of the Holy Spirit within the people who come into our lives. We see this power in their witness, in their steadfast and joyful attitude of service and in their fearless embracing of a cross or suffering that is unbearable for anyone to carry with human strength alone. We know that we are on holy ground when we either personally experience or witness the power of God working in another.
Jesus told his disciples and apostles to wait until the Holy Spirit's presence and power would most definitely be given to them. He tells us the same. There is no doubt in my mind or heart or soul that the Holy Spirit is with me. I am never alone.
Today is the day we remember how Jesus left the apostles and disciples, but he did not leave them orphans. He had told them that during the Last Supper and he had shared that if he did not leave them, the Holy Spirit would not be sent to them. As we live these days between the feasts of the Ascension and Pentecost, let us praise the wonder of the power of God's Spirit which is always with us. Jesus' followers saw him ascend to his Father, and most probably feeling alone and unsure. He reassured them with the promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit. He reassures us too.
Come, Holy Spirit, Come!
It is funny when we think of the images Jesus gives us in the Gospels. Sometimes we think of all kinds of bells and whistles, but more often than not, the power Jesus is talking about will be an inner reality that is imperceptible to everyone but the individual. Think about the last time you knew the Holy Spirit was with you, guiding you and, or strengthening you. Most probably, only you knew that gift was being given to you.
There are times, though, when we do get to glimpse the power of the Holy Spirit within the people who come into our lives. We see this power in their witness, in their steadfast and joyful attitude of service and in their fearless embracing of a cross or suffering that is unbearable for anyone to carry with human strength alone. We know that we are on holy ground when we either personally experience or witness the power of God working in another.
Jesus told his disciples and apostles to wait until the Holy Spirit's presence and power would most definitely be given to them. He tells us the same. There is no doubt in my mind or heart or soul that the Holy Spirit is with me. I am never alone.
Today is the day we remember how Jesus left the apostles and disciples, but he did not leave them orphans. He had told them that during the Last Supper and he had shared that if he did not leave them, the Holy Spirit would not be sent to them. As we live these days between the feasts of the Ascension and Pentecost, let us praise the wonder of the power of God's Spirit which is always with us. Jesus' followers saw him ascend to his Father, and most probably feeling alone and unsure. He reassured them with the promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit. He reassures us too.
Come, Holy Spirit, Come!
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