May 25, 2020
“When you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you renew the face of the ground.” (Psalm 104:30, NRSV)
In the book of Genesis (The first book of the Bible) the Spirit (or breath) of God broods over the waters as creation begins. Later Adam (the first human) does not have life until God breathes into him. In the valley of dry bones in the vision of the prophet Ezekiel – the dead do not live until the breath or wind comes from the four corners of the Earth. In the upper room in Jon 19 the discples receive the Spirit when Jesus breaths on them. Finally, on the Day of Pentecost the Spirit comes with tongues of fire but also with a mighty wind.
The Spirit is the presence, power and love of God who is with us and in us. As psalm 104 makes clear, one thing the Spirit does is creates new things and makes old things new. “… when you take away their breath, they die and return to their dust. When you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you renew the face of the ground.” (Psalm 104:29–30, NRSV) Creation is formed, Adam lived, the dead bones take on flesh and blood and rise, and the disciples are given power to witness, and to work the work of God when the Spirit is breathed into them.
If you have felt renewal in faith, or experienced a new beginning, or seen a Church community come alive, grow or heal, then that is the work of the Spirit.
Lord pour your Spirit into our hearts, our homes, our churches, our nations and our world that all things may be renewed; fill us and all creation with love and power. Cause us to be your powerful Spirit filled witnesses. In Jesus Name. Amen.
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