Gospel May 31 Pentecost

John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15; 20; 21,22

"Jesus said to them again "Peace be with you'. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.' When he said this he breathed on them and said to them 'Receive the Holy Spirit'" John 20:21-22

Hidden away in the post Easter events of John's Gospel is a "Pentecost Event".

It is only the fourth gospel that provides any teaching about the Holy Spirit (John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15). Jesus informs his disciples of the role and purpose of the Holy Spirit and in John 21:21-22 we read of his gifting of the Holy Spirit to his followers.

By contrast Luke announces a promised gift "with power from on high" (Luke 24:49) and his continuing story proclaims the arrival of that gift with miraculous signs and wonders - and with dramatic consequences. (Acts 2).

There is not doubt that such dynamic appearances and events can and do happen. Luke's account of the birth of the church and the coming of the Holy Spirit is an exclamation mark following the crucifixion of Jesus. The Pentecost event he describes as remarkable parallels in Jewish stories of Moses receiving the Law, with the law apparently being heard in 70 languages.

Exclamation points are needed in or live. Aha' moments, "WOW" experiences add richness of lives that are often well modulated and measured. We need these exciting experiences and reflection moments. But most of our lives are lived within and ordinary and predictable routine = domestic duties, work routine, familiar friends and interaction with family make up the majority of our experiences. We need the power of God at work in our lives through these times as well.

To us Jesus comes and say "Peace my friend - receive of my Spirit".