Pentecost Sunday

The theme of Passover to Pentecost has shaped new thinking for me. So many Christians are eager to receive the blessings of Christ, the Passover Lamb. Jesus forgives us of our sins and promises an eternity in heaven. But, Jesus placed clear emphasis on the "Promise  of the Father" (Luke 24:49). This promise is the Holy Spirit. While the Holy Spirit gives us ministry gifts and a reverent spiritual experience that words inadequately describe, the ongoing presence of the Holy Spirit insists on our surrender. This I believe is the reason I fail to experience more of the Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is a gentleman. The Spirit does not force himself but comes only at an invitation. This is just like salvation. Both Passover and Pentecost come is response to our invitation. We must ask.

Luke 11:9, 10, 13

And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. ¹⁰For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.  (nlt)