January 15, 2023
“John testified further, saying, ‘I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from heaven and remain upon him. I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.’”
We are well aware of Pentecost and the event which gave life to the church. The event at the Jordan speaks of the same Holy Spirit, present at Jesus’ baptism. Think about the words in John's gospel. The Spirit was visible like the wind, noise and fire at Pentecost. It descended upon Jesus and remained, leading the gospel writer to write ‘He is the Son of God.’ Later the centurion would echo this same profound statement.
At our confirmation the same Spirit came, and remains, but we are slow to make that special presence and power visible. John said he didn't know Him. Do we? He made us to know, love and serve Him. We are sent to make Him known, loved and served.
by Rev. William J. Reilly