The Holy Spirit came as wind and gave the disciples a “second breath". Read Acts 2:1-4. What’s harder to catch the faster you run? The answer is your breath. When we try to live as disciples of Jesus, relying on our own power, we lose energy. We need the Holy Spirit to strengthen us as we travel the journey of faith. The disciple, John, wrote that Jesus breathed on the disciples and gave them the Holy Spirit. The breath of God gave life to Adam in the creation story. The breath is interpreted as God's holy wind or Holy Spirit. A few weeks later, as the disciples gathered on the Temple grounds in prayer, God sent the Holy Spirit as wind and fire to empower them. This same power is available for each of us. God’s power is the power to love people. It’s the power to overcome temporary hardship. Sometimes God’s spirit moves in a gentle breeze, and sometimes like a spectacular rushing wind. The Holy Spirit renews our faith and gives us the courage to face whatever may come our way. If you feel “out of breath” spiritually, stop, reflect, and receive the Holy Spirit to keep your energy.

Come, Holy Spirit, fill us with a second wind so we can sustain our spiritual breath. Empower us to do your will and grow our faith stronger. Amen.