How often have you heard the more “mature” members of your family or parish talk about how “it used to be”? I am sure you hear these stories more often than you want to. It seems to be at the very core of being human to consider our past, to dwell on the times and places that held strong meaning for us. This same thing was true for the apostles, way back in the first century (yes, even people that long ago had history to think about).
On a particular occasion, this group of close disciples of Jesus were sitting in a locked room, discussing and praying about the events that had taken place just weeks ago. Namely the murder and resurrection of their leader, whom they believed was the Messiah, the Chosen one of God sent to redeem us. How should they go on, now that He was not with them in body any longer.
As they talked, the Spirit of God came upon them. This Spirit energized them – set them ablaze – and they were compelled to go out into the street and begin teaching others about the good news of Christ’s resurrection. This is what we celebrate in Pentecost!
But, Pentecost wasn’t just for the apostles who felt stuck in the past. Christians of all ages have had times in their lives when they have felt stuck. The Spirit is here for us now – TODAY, just as it was for those apostles, that we may be energized with the “good news” to move forward from our place and see the great things that God is doing today.
Answer the call of the Spirit. Let the past be what it is, take with you what you learn from it, and move outward and forward with this renewed energy for there are many good things our God is doing today and in our future!