Celebrating the Day of Pentecost

25 May Celebrating the Day of Pentecost

On Sunday we celebrate Pentecost, a day commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit on each of the apostles as a tongue of fire, causing them to speak in other languages. Jerusalem at that time was a multicultural city, with what the Bible describes as “devout Jews from every nation under heaven living” there. The reactions of the residents ranged from astonishment to accusations of drunkenness. Peter immediately pointed out that it was only 9AM, and they were not witnessing drunkenness, but fulfillment of prophesy. He quoted the second chapter of Joel stating that Jesus fulfills the prophesy of King David, having not been abandoned to Hades, but raised up by God. He further explained this event was the manifestation of the Holy Spirit that Jesus had promised. Peter then urged everyone to repent and be baptized. The Bible records that approximately three thousand answered his call. That was the day Christian Church was born and Peter fulfilled the prophesy of Jesus making Peter the rock upon which Jesus built the church.

What does this mean for us? According to Presbyterianmission.org, “on the Day of Pentecost, we celebrate God’s gift of Holy Spirit which draws us together as one people, helps us to comprehend what God is doing in the world, and empowers us to proclaim, in word and in deed, God’s plan of reconciling all people in the name of Christ (Ephesians 1:10)”. Calvary Presbyterian seems to exemplify that by continued support of multiple mission programs including Presbyterian Disaster Relief for Ukraine; PC(USA) Disaster Relief; UC Food Donation (Souper Bowl); donations to United Community Food Pantry; Hygiene Kits assembled for distribution to PC(USA); financial support of West African missionary Josh Heikkila; care of each other through friendship, prayer, and unconditional love as modeled by Jesus Christ.

This Pentecost as we celebrate the power of the Holy Spirit and renew our commitment to following Jesus, we must ask, what have we left undone? Who can we serve? Where is God leading us? These questions are not only for each of us as individuals but of great importance during the strategic pause we are now in as a congregation. I’m certain God has amazing things in store for Calvary Presbyterian and it is wonderful to watch the energy of the elders as they explore the future. I don’t know where the road is leading but I am beyond blessed to be on this journey of discovery with you!

Your Sister in Christ,

Shelly Good-Cook

Office Manager