As we near the end of our program year and begin the lengthy season of Pentecost, it can be tempting to want to take a break from the hustle of school, work, spring cleaning and even church. But in truth, we are just finishing a time of rest and celebration (Easter) and in our liturgical and church lives we’re readying ourselves to get back to work. In the Book of Acts, we read that the disciples asked Jesus “Lord, is this the the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority, but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in Judea, in Samaria and to the ends of the earth.”
In a 2013 Pentecost sermon, the Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry, reminded us that the “you” Jesus spoke of also extends to us today. He said, “YOU will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. YOU will be my witness in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, First Century Palestine and in 21st Century Pasadena. We need some witnesses now. And we need some Episcopalian witnesses.”
Our witness is our response to the work God has done in us. We show it in the integrity with which we work, our discipline in worship and our kindness toward others. Be renewed and be inspired this season to lean into your witness. Be an active part of the community of St. John’s so that we can encourage one another, members and friends alike.