The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
OPENING PRAYER:
Spirit, give us ears that hear today as we look to you and your guidance.
“I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Mark 1:8
“On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days, you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’” Acts 1: 4-5 (NIV)
REFLECT:
John the Baptist made his message very clear in Mark 1:8 – the baptism he was offering was a preamble to what Jesus would do. John knew that his water baptism meant nothing when compared to Jesus opening the door for his followers to be immersed by the Holy Spirit.
As we saw during Jesus’ own baptism, the Holy Spirit descended on him. Later, after Jesus broke the chains of sin and death, his followers received the Spirit on Pentecost. This was the fulfilment of the promises given before. The Spirit of Truth – the Great Helper and Advocate (1 John 14) was a gift given to us in the wake of Jesus’ death and resurrection. It is God with us, leading and guiding us.
We are reassured by Scripture that Jesus has asked the Father to fill us with the Spirit. We are promised that, as we humble our hearts to Jesus, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us, baptizing us with its presence.
APPLY:
Being baptized with the Holy Spirit is something that John the Baptist could only imagine during his life. Reflect on what a gift it is to be on this side of history --- to know what it is like, not only to receive, but also what it means to be able to live in relationship with the Holy Spirit. Spend time this week quieting your own mind and trying to hear the promptings of the Spirit in your life. This is an amazing gift we’ve been given. Let’s not waste it.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Spirit, help us learn to hear your voice and respond faithfully to the way you prompt us this week. Amen