Pentecost: Mission and Commission of Jesus

Pentecost Sunday: May 19, 2024

Readings: Acts 2:1–11; Psalm 104:1, 24, 29–31, 34; 1 Corinthians 12:3–7, 12–13; John 20:19–23

 To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/kWB8JFpOevg

Pentecost is one of the very important feasts of the Church. It is on this day, that the Church was born in a definite way with the baptism of 3,000 people in Jerusalem. St Peter as the leader of the infant Church, inspires and encourages to embrace the new way of life in Israel. The readings on this Sunday tell us the fascinating story of how it all happened and how people from diverse backgrounds, nationalities and languages accepted Jesus as the Lord. In fact, it's a definite sign that the rest of the church would continue on the same path of diversity and inclusivity in the coming centuries and ages.

1. The everlasting peace of the Risen Lord

John 20:19–23 narrates the appearance of the Risen Lord to the disciples. Jesus not only gives his disciples his peace but also breathes on them the Holy Spirit with a command to forgive others. The disciples were in a state of fear and uncertainty, huddled behind locked doors. This peace is not merely a greeting but a deep, abiding peace that dispels fear and brings comfort. In our own moments of anxiety and fear, we can remember that Jesus brings peace into our hearts and lives, even when circumstances seem daunting. His presence alone can transform our fear into joy and our uncertainty into confidence.

Jesus commissions his disciples with the words, "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." We are called to continue Jesus' mission of love, mercy, and reconciliation in the world. Each of us is sent into our daily lives to be bearers of the Gospel in fact, bearers of the gospel of joy, bringing hope and healing to those we encounter. In other words, we are challenged to consider how we can live out our faith more authentically and courageously. It is a call to embrace our own vulnerabilities and pains, knowing that they too can become signs of God's transformative love and grace in our lives.

2. Unending gifts of the Holy Spirit

When Jesus breathes on the disciples and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit," he empowers them for the mission ahead. The Holy Spirit is the source of our strength, wisdom, and courage as we seek to live out our Christian vocation.  The continual outpouring of the Spirit happens in our lives. We are never alone; the Holy Spirit is with us, guiding, comforting, and equipping us for every challenge and opportunity we face. 

Jesus grants the disciples the authority to forgive sins, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness in the Christian life. Forgiveness is a powerful act of love that can heal relationships, families, communities, and individuals. It reflects the boundless mercy of God and our call to extend that mercy to others. Forgiveness should be part of our daily routine. 

3. God's continuous wonder through the foundation of the Church

Acts 2:1–11 gives a beautiful explanation about the birthing of the Church in Jerusalem on the Pentecost day.  Even though a lot of ink has been spilled to detail when exactly the birth of the church took place, we believe in the event of today's Pentecost as a clear witness of the birthing of the Church. The Holy Spirit's arrival is a sign of how the divine power thrives in a community united in purpose and prayer. 

The dramatic signs on the Pentecost day signify the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which can ignite our hearts and equip us for God's work. As Christians, we live in the Holy Spirit's presence. It guides our lives, empowers us, and transforms us for our unique callings. God knows how to make people hear his message of salvation. He communicates his love in ways that are accessible and meaningful to others, transcending barriers of language, culture, and tradition. Our testimonies of God's goodness, power, and love can inspire faith and hope in others, drawing them closer to God.

Questions for Self-Reflection 

1. In what areas of my life do I currently feel fear or anxiety?
2. In what ways can I see God's love and grace at work in my suffering?
3. How can I more effectively live out my mission of love, mercy, and reconciliation in my daily interactions?
4. How do I experience the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit in my life?

Prayer 

Holy Spirit, come and fill our hearts as you did on the day of Pentecost. Unite us in your love and empower us to speak boldly of your wonders. Help us to break down barriers that divide us and to communicate your message of salvation to all people. May we be living witnesses of your transformative power, bringing hope and light to the world. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

May 15, 2024