“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you”

“You shall receive power” – in your personal lives

The message of Pentecost is a great comfort to those who can acknowledge this: “Listen! You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you!” And it wasn’t just anybody who said these words, but Jesus Christ Himself, just before He ascended to heaven.

People live and behave in very different ways. Some are quite likeable, whereas others are self-centered and egotistic. Some are helpful and friendly, whilst others are downright difficult to deal with. But there is one thing that applies to each one of us, if we really want to live according to the teachings of the Bible. If we are honest, there is only one conclusion: “I’m just not able to be good to everyone, and definitely not all the time. I can’t ensure that love always guides me in my thoughts and words.”

“You shall receive power” – to live together as Christians in a fellowship

You could think that the most difficult thing is to love your enemies. And that is really difficult. But Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends.” John 15:13. When we live together in a Christian fellowship year after year, we get to know each other rather well. The intention is that we love each other as brothers and sisters (yes, really each one of the others!) For example, by not being envious or bitter, or thinking evil. Never reproaching the others, but being mild, compassionate and encouraging. If we are honest, we have to admit: “In myself I’m just not able to love all my brothers and sisters without ceasing, and to love the others like Jesus has loved me.” Then this message of Pentecost is a very great comfort: “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you!” Acts 1:8.

Yes, Pentecost is really a festive occasion with a glorious promise and message!