Something Happened

Pentecost (the word means “fifty”) is celebrated by the Jewish people fifty days after Passover. One of the three pilgrimage feasts of Israel (Leviticus 23 Deuteronomy 16) In Leviticus it is called, “The Feast of Weeks,” a one-day festival that marked the beginning of harvest season. Based on the dating in Exodus 19:1 (when Israel arrived at Mt. Sinai) the feast of Pentecost was expanded to include a commemoration of God giving the Law to his people. The Book of Ruth, with its harvest themes, is read at this time. When Christians think of Pentecost, we link it with the birth of the Church. On the day of Pentecost, according to Acts 2, God poured the Holy Spirit out on his new covenant people, creating the community of those who follow Jesus and spread his Good News to the ends of the earth. Jesus said: “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:7). Jesus himself told us that the Spirit’s coming would be the best thing ever to happen for those who believe in him. For the outpouring of the Spirit is the capstone of Jesus’ finished work. He who became incarnate, who was revealed to Israel, crucified, buried, raised, ascended, and enthroned. Now from the throne his Spirit falls and puts the new covenant into operation on earth. Wow that is worthy of worship!