The Spirit of Life

Scripture lesson: Joel 2.23-32

“I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh…’

Joel 2.28

New Revised Standard Version

Many years ago, in the midst of a hectic day, I visited a member of my parish who invited me to stay long enough for a cup of tea. As she poured the hot liquid into the cup, I automatically felt soothed by its fragrance. When I drank the tea in her welcoming presence, I felt both rest and refreshment.

The prophet Joel spoke of a time when the Spirit of God would be poured out into all the people of Israel. Not just the religious scholars or priests or those with special abilities but all people of various ages and backgrounds and passions. The Spirit of God would be like the tea that I drank on my pastoral visit: reviving and renewing and energizing all at once.

It is said of Jesus that he poured himself out on behalf of all who entered the circle of his compassion. What expressed itself through him was the same Spirit of whom Joel spoke: the Spirit that brings healing, hope and strength for the journey of life. To believe in God is to believe that this Spirit flows through us, enabling us to offer to the world the love and vitality that we see in the witness and word of Jesus Christ.

Prayer: O God of energy and hope, we pray that you would give us the trust necessary to claim that spiritual vitality that is already in us, thanks to your gracious presence. Help us to offer that gift wisely and generously for who enter the circle of our care, through Jesus the Christ. Amen.

~ by Rev. Dr. Edward Horstmann on March 12, 2007.