THE BIBLE – DISCOVERY YEAR 07 WITH LUKE’S COMMENT FOR PENTECOST – 27-05-07 
Psalm 104: 24-34, 35b 
There is a pervading sense of joy in this psalm as the writer reflects on the wonders of the natural world and its creatures. The mysterious ocean is no threat, nor is the shortness of human life a cause for melancholy.  This is because all things are alive with the breath – Spirit of God: the God of the Covenant people.
Acts 2: 1-21 
The Pentecost event began with the disciples shaking off confusion as if they were waking to a new reality.  The atmosphere is electric with new energies.  The Spiritual Power creating such strength and light it was visible and audible.  Curious people came and heard the disciples speaking with such confidence, power and conviction that conveyed a sense of truth and certainty.  Many people who had been deeply disturbed about the crucifixion now understood, the Man from Nazareth was the Messiah.
Romans 8: 14-17 
There is something strange and mysterious in the Pentecost experience but it is the recognition and acceptance within the family of God which is new.  This personal, spiritual experience comes with all the warmth of family understanding and support, with all the expectation of sharing in the riches of family life and family inheritance.  It is the here- and – now encounter with the loving energies of God which enables this spontaneous response of “ God, my Father.”
John 17: 8-17 
This is a rich source of ideas for people who want to think about the spiritual life.  The world we live in likes its messages to be in headline form.  But Jesus talks of the Spirit of Truth as the message he received from God and which he is now passing on to his disciples. There is plenty that is cheerful and joyous in the Pentecost experience, but it is not superficial.  Rather it promises rich rewards in a life of integrity for those who embark on a search for truth.
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