Pentecost Sunday

Acts 2:1-11. Lord, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth – Psalm 103(104):1, 24, 29-31, 34. Galatians 5:16-25. John 15:26-27; 16:12-15.

As the Father sent me, so I am sending you

Irene: A lovely story to end your time with us, Jesus. Tell me, though, why did you wish the disciples peace twice?

Jesus: The first time was to put them at ease, Irene –  they were like stunned mullets when they saw me. Then after they saw my wounds and knew I was for real, I wished them peace for the mission I was sending them out on. That would take them into hard places, and the peace I wished them was one that flows out of a deep faith.

Irene: I see – the Holy Spirit brought them this peace. Where did forgiveness come into their mission, though?

Jesus: Forgiveness comes in everywhere, Irene. It brings peace, and when people who follow me are kind and forgiving they bring other people to me. Don’t you find that with the people you know?

Irene: Sure, I find it when people forgive me. But it’s much harder to forgive others, isn’t it, Jesus?

Jesus: It is indeed, Irene, and that’s why I send the Spirit to gentle you.