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“They were all together in one place…” (Acts 2:1)

Jesus said: “Peace be with you! As God has sent me, so I send you!” (John 20:21)

These two readings appointed to be read on Pentecost Sunday form and describe the dual mission and ministry of the Church. The reading from the book of Acts states that the followers of Jesus “were all together in one place.” This was 50 days after the death and resurrection of Jesus, and the disciples had been told to wait for the Holy Spirit which would come upon them. A bit later in this reading the Holy Spirit does come among the disciples. The Spirit fills and transforms them, preparing them to go out into the world to share the love and life of Jesus. This is the first part of what we are to be about as the Church. We, like those first followers of Jesus, are to gather together regularly for prayer, support, inspiration, spiritual nourishment and to be prepared for our work and ministry in the world.
 

The second part of our mission is what Jesus says in the Gospel – “as God has sent me, so I send you!” We, the Church, the gathered followers of Jesus, have been empowered by God’s Spirit to carry on the ministry of Jesus and to be Jesus’ presence in the world. We are not to be passive spectators, but active participants! Those first followers of Jesus did not stay put, praying and meditating all day! They went out and shared the life and love of God as Jesus’ body in the world! So too for us! We are to go out to share the life-giving love of Jesus in our daily lives and work, as well as in the various ministries we engage in here at St. Paul’s Church.  You are the Body of Christ!  You are Jesus Christ in the world!  You are filled with God’s Spirit of life and love!  Go out and live life fully by loving, caring, sharing and giving as Jesus did!

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