A Pentecost Reflection

(Recorded live during worship at LInden Park United Community Church, Hamilton)

Renewal, Unity, Sending

Pentecost has always been one of my favorite days in the church year. It’s often called the birthday of the church — a day of wind, fire, voices, and bold new beginnings. But as I’ve grown older, I see Pentecost as something more profound. It feels like a personal invitation to welcome the Holy Spirit’s work in my life again. This invitation stands regardless of my age, energy level, or stage of life.

This year, as I prepared to lead our worship, three simple words guided me.
Renewal. Unity. Sending.

Let me share a few reflections from my study.

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1️⃣ The Spirit Renews Our Lives

Acts 2 tells us that the Holy Spirit came like a rushing wind and tongues of fire. In Ezekiel 37, we read of dry bones being brought back to life by God’s Spirit.

I don’t know about you, but there are times when my spirit feels tired or dry. Life brings seasons of grief, change, and uncertainty. But Pentecost reminds us: God is not finished with us! The Spirit still breathes new life into weary hearts. We can be renewed again — even in our later years.

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2️⃣ The Spirit Brings Unity in Diversity

On that first Pentecost, people from many nations heard the Good News in their own language. The Spirit didn’t erase their differences — it brought understanding and unity.

In today’s world, we need this Pentecost Spirit more than ever. The church is called to be a place where all belong — across generations, cultures, and backgrounds. In our seniors’ group, we shared how each person’s gifts and life experience enriches the whole body of Christ.

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3️⃣ The Spirit Sends Us to Witness

Pentecost was not just about gathering — it was about sending. Jesus said, “You will be my witnesses.”

Sometimes we think of witnessing as something for the young or the bold. But we realized in our group. Each of us, no matter our age, can share Christ’s love. We can do this through prayer, encouragement, kindness, and presence. The Spirit empowers us to shine His light right where we are.

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A Prayer for Pentecost

Spirit of the Living God,
breathe new life in us again.
Unite us in your love.
Send us out — with courage and joy —
to be your witnesses in the world.
Amen.

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Final Thought

Pentecost reminds me that I am never too old to be renewed. I am never too different to belong. I am never too small to be sent.

Come, Holy Spirit — fall afresh on us!