“By this power of the Spirit, God’s children can bear much fruit. He who has grafted us onto the true vine will make us bear ‘the fruit of the Spirit…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.’” Cor 1:21
Today is one of my favorite Christian celebrations, the feast of Pentecost, because “on that day, Holy Trinity is fully revealed.” (CCC 732)
Thinking back to when Jesus was with his disciples, I can imagine the uneasiness and fear they felt when, in the upper room, Jesus told them He had to ascend to His Father and was leaving their earthly presence. Yet, He gave them (and us) the most wonderful gift: “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (CCC 733)
For this reason, I love this time between Easter and Pentecost, when we celebrate the Risen Christ and anticipate a renewal of our faith through the Holy Spirit. Surely, feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit brought each of the disciples much peace in their moments of fear and He does the same for us. Ahhhh, His peace...
Many inspirations have been given to me over the years surrounding Pentecost, one of which was the desire to get married on Pentecost Sunday. I wanted to make sure that there was a visible sign of our union of marriage, not just in us, but in the Holy Spirit, for it is only through his power and love that we can bear much fruit. As Anthony’s and my wedding day approached, I searched far and wide for the perfect wedding cake topper, because the traditional man and wife didn’t seem to reflect the full meaning of the sacred union in the divine mystery where our hearts become one with each other in and through God. When I found two white doves, I needed to look no further; we knew that marriage without being receptive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit was not going to get us very far. I was so pleased when our priest asked, “Which one is the Holy Spirit?”
When I first heard the song “Peace” written by Beth Nielsen Chapman and Michael McDonald, memories of my wedding day came flooding back. I wanted to record this song. Listening to it reminds me that the Holy Spirit brings us supernatural peace. For that reason, Pentecost, for me, is the “season of peace.”
Come Holy Spirit….
Spirit of wisdom and understanding, enlighten our minds to perceive the mysteries of the universe in relation to eternity. Spirit of right judgment and courage, guide us and make us firm in our baptismal decision to follow Jesus' way of love. Spirit of knowledge and reverence, help us to see the lasting value of justice and mercy in our everyday dealings with one another. May we respect life as we work to solve problems of family and nation, economy and ecology. Spirit of God, spark our faith, hope and love into new action each day. Fill our lives with wonder and awe in your presence which penetrates all creation. Amen.