“We owe the world an encounter with God.” These words by Bill Johnson regarding the Holy Spirit have challenged me in my personal life and ministry. This Sunday is Pentecost Sunday. We celebrate the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that is still happening. Jesus says in John 7, “if you are thirsty, come to me and out of you will flow springs of living water.”John goes on to say Jesus was talking about the Holy Spirit. Even Jesus is baptized with the Holy Spirit before He begins His public ministry. After the resurrection He breathes on HIs disciples the Holy Spirit and later, before His ascension, promises them they will receive a new power to go into the world.

We will talk about the biblical background and present reality of this gift. But, have you ever wondered why some people seem to have more enthusiasm and effect as Christ followers? It’s not because they have more of the Holy Spirit because they wouldn’t be followers without the Spirit. No, it’s not that at all. The effectiveness has to do with how much of you does the Holy Spirit have. Almost every Sunday at some point in our worship we say together, “Come Holy Spirit.” It is a reminder of the power we have to do His ministry now. People who seem more effective in their lives are often those who give more of themselves to the Spirit. I do this in the  morning before I leave the house and often during the day, in times of ordinary meetings or stress or thanksgiving etc. I encounter Him for the world around me.

Then we can take authority in any situation and saturate the time with Him. Without the Holy Spirit, we can talk about God but not be in touch with Him. This Sunday, you will have a unique opportunity to do just that. To be in touch with Him.

Invite family and friends as we not only talk about the Holy Spirit and experience Him, but also celebrate the birthday of the Church. Cupcakes will be provided after each service for this feast. WEAR RED! This color of the feast day symbolizes the fire that came down on the disciples, fills them with power to exercise spiritual gifts, and moves out in mission.

Come and See,

+Philip