the relay race of the centuries
"All were filled with the Holy Spirit. They began to express themselves in foreign tongues and make bold proclamation as the Spirit prompted them." —Acts 2:4
Although the feast of Pentecost is the end of the Easter season, Pentecost is a beginning. It is the birthday of the Church. The account of Pentecost in Acts of the Apostles is preceded by one chapter and followed up in twenty-six chapters. Pentecost is a grand beginning more than it is a grand finale.
The day of the first Christian Pentecost began with 120 people receiving the Holy Spirit at 9 AM (see Acts 1:15; 2:15), and these 120 brought the Holy Spirit to 3,000 people before the day was over (see Acts 2:41). The next day those 3,000 tried to reach several more thousands (see Acts 4:4). Over the centuries, some Christians continued to share Pentecost with others (e.g. Acts 9:17; 19:2ff), but some have "dropped the ball" and quenched the Spirit (see 1 Thes 5:19). At present, over two billion people have received the Holy Spirit through Baptism. Now we are to share this Pentecost with over four billion people as soon as possible. When we do, the Spirit, as promised, will have renewed the face of the earth (Ps 104:30). Then Jesus will return; the world will end; and we who have been faithful in constantly proclaiming Pentecost will be with the Lord forever in perfect, infinite love.
Share Pentecost. Finish Pentecost. God is waiting. As the Father sent Jesus, Jesus sends you (Jn 20:21). Go! Go now!
Prayer: Father, make me a missionary of Pentecost from this moment till my death.
Promise: "No one can say: 'Jesus is Lord,' except in the Holy Spirit." —1 Cor 12:3
Praise: Praise the Holy Spirit, third Person of the Blessed Trinity, God of infinite Love!
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape Staying Filled With the Spirit on audio AV 57-1 or video V-57.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 12, 2004
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