The Quiet Pentecost

I like John 20:19-23...particularly vvs 21-22...the quiet Pentecost event. No sounds of a rushing wind. No visible signs appear like tongues of fire. No multitude of languages. No crowds of witnesses. No powerful preaching Peter. Just a bunch of fearful and fear-filled disciples in a locked room. The appearance of Jesus. His quiet calming "Peace be with you." And then he 'breathes' on them. He 'breathes' into them the life-giving Spirit. Like God in the garden breathing into the dust new life. Like Ezekiel breathing the Word into the valley of dry bones. Jesus breathing life into his disciples...and so into his church.

For many of us, the coming of the Holy Spirit is just such a breath-filled experience. The Spirit's coming took place in the quiet spaces and places of our lives...filled us with peace and a knowledge of the presence of God...and challenges and encourages us to act despite our fear.

I like John 20:19-23 because it helps me remember that Pentecost is not always bells and whistles. Quite often it is simply the quiet small voice of God speaking into the silent places and space of me. May God grant me the ears to hear...and the trust to act.