Common Good

“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” ~ 1 Corinthians 12:7

The Feast of Pentecost is a favourite of mine. I love wind. I have wonderful memories of feeling caressed by the wind in Mombassa years ago. I remember being perched in a tree in Ohio, praying when a gentle stirring in the air made me aware of God’s presence. I believe that God is manifested in the wind via the Spirit. Oftentimes, a breeze will remind me that God is with me.

Today’s readings are a reminder of how the Breath of God should affect our lives. The first reading from Acts made me think of a conversation I had with a British friend about the Tower of Babel while we were both living in Burundi—a place where I did not always understand the language. Here everyone can comprehend each other without difficulty. The Spirit blesses them with the gift of understanding.

The second reading focuses on the variety of the gifts of the Spirit, given freely for service and to be used for the common good. Here, in this text, there are no distinctions made but rather a look at the unifying nature of the Spirit. We are one body, created to be in service to one another for the glory of God. The alternate reading lists the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. We need these gifts in order to serve, to create a common good.

The gospel has Jesus appearing in the Upper Room, without a word of reproach, but rather with words that are encouraging, loving, and merciful to this group of people who deserted him: Peace be with you. Jesus follows this with a commissioning. He sends them out of their fear and back into the world to serve. Now is not the time for fear but for boldness. Fear holds us back. I connect peace with the Holy Spirit, perhaps because one of the common symbols is a white dove. Peace was given that day and this day to those who receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit in order to serve boldly and generously for the common good.

Happy Pentecost! May the Breath of God blow renewed life into you and may the gifts and fruits of the Spirit that you have been given bless those most in need.

Peace,

Suzanne