Pentecostés, 1615-1620, by Juan Bautista Maíno
Jn 15,26-27; 16,12-15
Describing a wonder-filled and amazing experience is never easy. Ultimately, we have to use metaphors hoping they convey something of the experience to which others can relate. Today wind and fire are used. The coming of the Spirit was both felt and perceived and very, very real. The Spirit banished all the fears the disciples had before he appeared. Fear was replaced not just by courage but with a desire to go and tell people about Jesus with conviction and passion and with a desire that others have the same experience. And they did. The coming of the Spirit is like meeting someone whose presence speaks of inner goodness, inner peace and beauty that grows ever stronger. It is felt because it embraces
your whole being. Most of all it speaks quietly but emphatically of the presence of God. Walking away everything around looks different, more colourful, more vibrant, more radiant: all speaking of the presence of God. Sometimes slowly sometimes quickly, the experience speaks gently and reassuringly of the presence of God within you. The inner spirit wants to sing the praises of God and shout aloud, “God is great! God’s Spirit is great! and you want to pray with Mary, “My soul glorifies the Lord! My spirit rejoices in God my saviour!” The Holy Spirit cannot come enough.
Pentecost Malcom Guite
Today we feel the wind beneath our wings. Today the hidden fountain flows and plays. Today the church draws breath at last and sings, as every flame becomes a Tongue of praise. This is the feast of fire, air, and water poured out and breathed and kindled into earth. The earth herself awakens to her maker and is translated out of death to birth. The right words come today in their right order and every word spells freedom and release. Today the gospel crosses every border; all tongues are loosened by the Prince of Peace. Today the lost are found in His translation. Whose mother-tongue is Love, in every nation.
by Fr Thomas O'BRIEN a.a