On the day of Pentecost the apostles were gathered together when they heard a violent rush of wind which filled the house. The Holy Spirit had come down on them and they spoke in various KNOWN languages. This is not the “speaking in tongues” you might hear about from some forms of fundamental Christianity. Instead these are languages that were spoken by various ethnic groups in the area. To place into perspective exactly what the Gospel account is referring to in our modern culture, picture a migrant worker from Mexico that does not speak English. Now, imagine the farm owner only speaks English. If the Holy Spirit descended on them in the same fashion the two could understand each other even though they have no formal education in that language.
Jesus reminds us in the Gospel lesson today the Holy Spirit was already in existence much before coming down as God’s spirit to create the church. The Holy Spirit was being sent as a comfort to the people of God. God promises to never leave or forsake us and the Holy Spirit having descended upon the earth for Christ’ Kingdom on earth further proves that statement. The Holy Spirit also convicts us when we do not do what we should be doing. Whether we are doing good, or bad, God’s love is infinite. God shows love for us in many different ways. It is unimaginable that some people blame God when things turn out wrong. However, just as God knew we would need a comforter (the Holy Spirit) all things come to us in good time. Thanks be to God. Come Holy Spirit.
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