The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:5-6)
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Breath of God
Is the Holy Spirit resident in your life or president of your life? I call that The Pentecost Question, posed by Rikk Watts in my Scripture Union Bible study last Sunday.
Lord Christ,
How can I connect with your Spirit?
I’m convinced that regular Bible study releases or unlocks the Holy Spirit. I feel it in nature and worship. I find it in caring people and service.
Still, my glass seems half-empty.
In Acts, the Spirit comes powerfully upon your Disciples with wind and fire, even linguistic gifts.
St. Paul is more real about the surreal. In Romans, we are groaning, hoping and waiting - in our weakness - for something we can’t see.
…but I want a cup that runneth over!
Our Book of Common Prayer talks about being enlightened and strengthened for your service; about growing in the likeness of Christ; about love and harmony with God, ourselves, our neighbors and with all creation.
I pray for an infusion of your Holy Spirit - in the words of a hymn from two centuries ago:
Breathe on me, Breath of God, fill me with life anew, that I may love what Thou dost love, and do what Thou wouldst do. Amen.
The Book of Common Prayer, pages 251, 853
Breath on me, Breath of God, #508, The Hymnal 1982 (The Episcopal Church)
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