Today we have arrived at the peak of all blessings. We have reached the capital of feasts. We have obtained the very fruit of the Lord’s promise.
John Chrysostom
Pentecost is one of the holiest, happiest days of the Christian year. Coming 10 days after the celebration of the risen Christ’s ascension into heaven, Pentecost commemorates the gift of the Holy Spirit upon the first Christians. This was the day that Peter stepped forward to speak to the crowd. As a result, thousands of people who first thought the Christians were drunk at 9 a.m. decided that Jesus really was the Messiah after all.
How can we prepare for this day, which falls on May 28th this year? We have time to devote ourselves to opening up to the power of the Holy Spirit before Pentecost. Here are a few intentional ways to do so.
- Before Pentecost, every time you see a bird, say “Come, Holy Spirit.” This honors the symbol of the dove representing the Spirit. But it also opens us up to calling on the Holy Spirit throughout the day.
- Review your Lenten resolutions. How did it go? Pray over them again. Perhaps you should continue doing some of them, in part or in full.
- Listen to songs about the Holy Spirit. Several in this list have similar names, but they are different songs.
- “Come Holy Spirit” by Vineyard Music
- “The Change in Me” by Casting Crowns
- “Spirit of the Living God” by Vertical Worship
- “Spirit of the Living God” (Fall Afresh on Me) by Phil Wickham
- “Spirit Fall” by Chris Tomlin
- “Fresh Wind” by Hillsong Worship
- “Come Holy Spirit (Need You Now)” by New Wine Worship
- Meditate over the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. I think about the traditional gifts of the Spirit:
- Wisdom
- Understanding
- Counsel
- Fortitude
- Knowledge
- Piety
- Fear of God
- Pray that God with bless you with the graces necessary for you to demonstrate the fruits of the Holy Spirit:
- Love
- Joy
- Peace
- Patience
- Kindness
- Goodness
- Faithfulness
- Gentleness
- Self-control
Preparing for Pentecost Sunday can bring more intention to your life.