Pentecost is the springboard of Christ’s church. It marks the time when his former followers began spreading his ministry. It is the nexus of our faith – where Jesus’ truth, way and light were revealed to be a community.
While Pentecost is a time of celebration, it also presents us with difficult truths we ultimately can’t avoid.
When I enter the Pentecost story, I am in the crowd. I listen to Peter from a sea of black, brown, beige and ruddy faces. I wonder, “What in the world is going on? Why is this happening? Do others feel what I’m feeling?!”
The story, like Jesus, is honest, challenging and even a little messy. It’s also relatable as we struggle with war, civil unrest, political upheaval, violence, racism, bias, exclusion and injustice. Pentecost reminds us even as it admonishes: Christ’s church is the people – all nations, languages, ages, genders and colors.
Pentecost should inspire passion, hope and the belief that God blesses every person. If we look at Pentecost as a call to include, seek understanding and broaden circles, what can we do individually and in our churches and communities?
This message is excerpted from “Pentecost all year” by Karris Golden in the June 2022 Café online magazine. Today is Pentecost Sunday.
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