This past Sunday morning I arrived at church to get ready for worship only to find that the power was out as a result of a storm. The building was dark; the computer and projection screens were blank; the organ and microphones didn't make a sound. Early arrivers were standing outside wondering what to do? Fortunately within a few minutes the power was restored and we went on with worship as usual.
In our traditional service that morning we sang, "Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee, perfect in power, in love and purity." Then in our contemporary service we sang, "More love, more power, more of You in my life." Both had been planned ahead of time for their respective services.
It made me wonder what would happen if the power of the Holy Spirit were to be temporarily cut off from our lives, from our churches. Would we notice any difference? How much do we rely on the power of the Spirit to deal with our personal problems and worries? How much do we rely on the power of the Spirit to accomplish ministry in and through us? Or are we simply relying on our own strength and our own wisdom?
Today we celebrate Pentecost - the commemoration of the coming of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus' followers after His ascension. It is considered the "birthday" of the church. (Acts 2:1-11) Pentecost is a good time to wrestle with these questions.
- Rev. David T. Wilkinson
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