A Reading
You however are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. (Romans 8:9)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Galatians 6:22)
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19)
Whilst I deny becoming a couch potato, I have watched a slow-moving science fiction series called Mission. The fabricated plot about earlier human habitation on Mars had some interesting elements.
The modern astronauts visiting Mars contract a mutation of their DNA. Not a random mutation such as we suffer on earth, but a specific mutation that improves human co-operation and compassion.
I am comfortable to believe that Jesus has full command over DNA, which is evidenced by his healing abilities. But the suggestion did make me wonder whether receiving the Holy Spirit, which also improves our behaviours towards one another, results in a change in our DNA. I will leave that question to the scientists.
However, the dilemma facing the astronauts is whether it is morally right to return to earth and allow their mutation to spread throughout the population. Shouldn’t humans be allowed to choose whether they fight or co-operate?
Fortunately for Christians, that is not a dilemma we face. Spreading the Holy Spirit throughout the population is what Jesus has called us to do.
So I had better get off this couch and get out and about.
A prayer
Come, Holy Spirit,
Fill our hearts with the love of God
And guide us in service to others.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord,
Amen