Are you feeling Spirit-filled?

May 23 was Pentecost Sunday. Did you feel the fire of the Holy Spirit move in your heart?

I love Pentecost. I totally get it and truly believe that when Jesus left the disciples to return to the Father, he sent his Advocate, the Holy Spirit, to be with us all the time. There have been times in my life when circumstances are just too wierd to believe, and I know the Holy Spirit has had a hand in my life.

This past Sunday, May 30, was Holy Trinity Sunday. On this day we reflect upon the triune nature of God...God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This concept can be really hard to believe and to reconcile with our 21st century brains, but multiple Bible passages point to this unique understanding of God.

These two Sundays, paired so closely together in the church year, help remind us that we are never alone. God the creator, father of all things, is always with us. Whether we see and feel God through the created world in which we live, feel his presence because of what we know of His Son, Jesus, and how He suffered and died for us, or suddenly find ourselves moved to doing something we didn't plan to do because of the Holy Spirit guiding our hearts and minds, God has made it clear that He is with us in one shape or another.

I think the timing is pretty neat. Here we are, about to embark upon vacations and summer travels that will likely take us away from our home congregations and support systems. And yet, the Holy Spirit has moved the powers that be in the Church that designed the liturgical year and church calendar to conveniently smack us in the face with this reminder, "You are never alone, I am always with you, for the Father is sending you the Advocate, the Holy Spirit" (paraphrase John 14:15-21)

So enjoy your vacations. Your travels may take you to some incredible vistas that will re-connect you to the awesome creative power of God. But if you feel somehow homesick, remember that the Holy Spirit is with you and let your travels be Spirit-filled. When you shine with the love of God and let the Holy Spirit guide your life, others will take notice that your life is somehow different. It is different, because you were made holy in your baptism and the Holy Spirit lives in you.

And you, child of God, are never alone. Do you feel it?