First Mary, then the Disciples, then the visitors from the ends of the earth; all are filled with the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that enables everyone in this explosive scene to remain at peace, indeed letting Christ's peace reign in their hearts. And how is it that the Spirit is shared with everyone? It is the vulnerability of the human spirit which opens us up to the power of the Divine, Holy, Spirit.
This scene in scripture which we have variously described as beautiful, holy, miraculous, and hopeful, it is Pentecost. How is this scene different from the revelry among the Israelites when Moses came down the Mountain? how is it different from the crowds who screamed for the crucifixion of Jesus? How is it different from the riots, protests, and stormings we have witnessed in our streets? It is the vulnerability of the human spirit which opens us up to the power of the Divine, Holy, Spirit.
When we enter a challenging moment, even a frightening scene, we can choose to fight or flee, or to be vulnerable to what may happen if we choose courage. It is vulnerability that gives birth to courage and allows the Spirit of God to transform us into a community of faith. How is it that all of us who speak different languages, who come from different walks of life, from different ways of seeing; how is it that all of us encounter each other as brothers and sisters; how is it that each one of us receives the promised gift of the Holy Spirit and becomes a vital member of the body of Christ? We choose to be vulnerable; not to cling to a shield of righteousness; not to run from what frightens us, not to close our eyes to those who see differently; not to close our hearts to those who love differently. Together we hear the good news of salvations poured out in our minds, hearts, bodies, and souls, through the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Come Holy Spirit, Come!
Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.