A Reading
Suddenly there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit… (Acts 2: 2-4)
A Thought
Last week we received a letter from Western Power Distribution to advise us that our electricity supply would be interrupted for 6 hours on Wednesday for important maintenance work. Electricity powers everything in the house, from broadband to kettle to computers.
On Tuesday afternoon, we discovered that our oil meter was malfunctioning and that our oil tank was practically empty. To avoid damage to the boiler, we switched off the central heating.
Whilst the weather forecast happily predicted the coldest night of the winter, we all resigned ourselves to a freezing house throughout Wednesday.
We do however have an open fire. With careful laying of coal bricks and spliced logs, a flame was maintained from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm. The hearth stones became warm to the touch, acting as a radiator.
It reminded me of Nicky Gumbel’s comments in Alpha about the HS. He says that the Holy Spirit is like a boiler pilot light. Some Christians experience the full-on boiler roar, whilst others experience just the constant reassurance of the pilot light within. But the impact is the same.
The Holy Spirit is always alongside us, like a large boat beside a small dingy, to guide us through troubled circumstances and point us towards Jesus. The Holy Spirit provides a warm feeling inside, as we migrate from knowledge of JC to a relationship with JC.
I am pleased to report that we have survived Wednesday, and I hope to enjoy full-on spiritual and bodily warmth next week.
A Prayer
Come, Holy Spirit
Fill us with your love,
Take away our sorrow and anxiety,
Hold us in your arms.
Amen