19 May 2013: Pentecost Sunday

“Look up at the stars, not down at your feet and wonder about what makes the universe exists. Be curious”, there was a hidden hint of theology and cosmology in a mother’s remark. We sense a cosmic connection through our hearts. Pentecost is when invisible mystery becomes visible, when the unknown becomes accessible and when incarnate divinity lightens our soul.

In our life we move towards our final goal, wherever we are, the Spirit within us unfolds that ultimate goal, because the Holy Spirit is facilitating enabling that compelling attraction.  As for Teilhard de Chardin, the priest and scientist, the heart of God is found at the heart of the world, and the living, natural world, is shot through with the presence of the divine.

Pentecost Spirit lives in the core of the natural universe, firing and energizing its inevitable evolution, tenderly holding all creatures in their finitude and death and urging and drawing the world forward towards the unfathomable future.

Lord Jesus, as God’s Spirit came down and rested upon you, may the same spirit rest on us, bestowing his sevenfold gifts.

First, grant us the gift of understanding, by which your precepts may enlighten our minds.

Second, grant us counsel, by which we may following your footsteps on the path of righteousness.

Third, grant us courage, by which we may ward off the enemy's attacks.

Fourth, grant us knowledge, by which we can distinguish good from evil.

Fifth, grant us piety, by which we may acquire compassionate hearts.

Sixth, grant us fear, by which we may draw back from evil, and submit to what is good.

Seventh, grant us wisdom, that we may taste fully the life-giving sweetness of your love.

St Bonaventure (1221 - 1274)