As I sit to write it is pouring with rain outside my window. Such a change after the summer we have had. And yet the grass is already freshly green.
There are times when we need refreshment too. This can be physical – to quench thirst or hunger, sleep - to restore energy, or spiritual - to renew vitality. Jesus modelled withdrawing for times of prayer, particularly after giving out of himself.
One image that is used in scripture to illustrate the gift of the Spirit is the pouring out of water. Ezekiel describes the life-giving fresh water flowing out from the temple (Ezekiel 47).
Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let them come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him/her.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. (John 7: 37ff).
Peter, explaining the fact of Pentecost, says that “God has raised this Jesus to life and we are all witnesses to the fact. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear (Acts 2: 32-33).
I once used water to demonstrate the moment of Pentecost. I was leading the service in our church and the rector was away. I stood on a ladder with a full jug of water, and prepared to pour it onto a plastic sheet held up by about twelve children. It was a moment of anticipation. “Here goes”. I tipped the jug, missed the sheet and soaked the children. There was chaos, screams, parents rushing forward, Peter, the worship leader, saying “I’m glad you’re not a teacher, Nigel”, and I stood on the stage, not sure what to do next… Then we all started laughing. Because that of course is what it must have been like.
And the Holy Spirit is given to refresh and equip us. Jesus says that “the Counsellor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said it you.” More, it is the dynamic of faith. Think of times when you have been surprised by joy, suddenly feeling peace, a problem solved, or an awareness of God’s presence. That is the working of the Holy Spirit. Those with you are overflowing, whether they know it or not, and you have received. You can overflow too, and in turn help others, whether you know it or not….
Today's memory verse is Romans 15: 13. You can use this verse, changing “you” to “us “, or “me”.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Nigel
Respond