Mid-Week Musings
May 15, 2024
Suggested Reading: Acts 2:1-4
Dear NBRC Family & Friends,
In the church, Pentecost this year is Sunday, May 19. It’s the day we commemorate the unleashing and outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the empowering of the church by the Holy Spirit, and when Jesus’ disciples first received a permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit. In John 14:16 Jesus said, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever─” (NIV). That promise was kept on the day of Pentecost.
The Heidelberg Catechism helps believers understand the Person and work of the Holy Spirit in Q/A 53.
What do you believe concerning “the Holy Spirit”?
First, that, with the Father and the Son, he is equally eternal God; second, that God’s Spirit is also given to me, preparing me through a true faith to share in Christ and all his benefits, that he comforts me and will abide with me forever.
The Belgic Confession (Article 11) also helps believers understand the Holy Spirit.
We believe and confess also that the Holy Spirit eternally proceeds from the Father and the Son; not made nor created, nor begotten, but only proceeding from both; who in order is the third Person of the Trinity, of the same being, majesty, and glory with the Father and the Son; being true and eternal God as the holy Scriptures teach us.
As a Person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit deserves our worship and obedience, as do the Father and the Son, one God now and forever. Through His Holy Spirit, God continues to be at work among His people. Do you see Him at work in your life?
Pastor Ron
Prayer suggestion: As you pray, ask God to help you understand better and appreciate more the Person and work of the Holy Spirit.
(On Sunday morning, May 19, 2024, the sermon title will be Absent but Present. The Scripture lesson will be from John 14:15-26. Please remember the Pancake Breakfast in celebration of Pentecost. Breakfast will be served from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. The menu includes pancakes, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, granola, yogurt, juice, and coffee.)