The descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles and Mary at Pentecost. © Elizabeth Wang, radiantlight.org.uk

What does the Spirit do? His works are ineffable in majesty, and innumerable in quantity. How can we even ponder what extends beyond the ages? What did He do before creation began? How great are the graces He showered on creation? What power will He wield in the age to come? He existed; He pre-existed; He co-existed with the Father and the Son before the ages. Even if you can imagine anything beyond the ages, you will discover that the Spirit is even further beyond. -St. Basil the Great

This Pentecost, I find myself hungering for revival, for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit to awaken God’s people to the fullness of faith. This prayer (or song lyric) was born out of that hunger. Each verse was inspired by scriptures relating to the work of the Holy Spirit.

The first verse uses images of the Holy Spirit as sacred breath, as found in the gift of life in Genesis 2:7 and Jesus’ gift of the Holy Spirit in John 20:19-23. The second verse relates the empowerment of God’s people by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. (Acts 2:1-40) The last verse draws together images of the Holy Spirit’s transforming power at work in those who believe. (Acts 2:41-47; Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12; Ezekiel:37:1-14)

May hungering become happening- Lisa <><

Come, Holy Spirit
Breathe into us the breath of new life
Come, Generous Spirit
Bring peace and bring hope
Bring courage for change
Bring freedom from all falsehood and fear

Come, Holy Spirit
Embolden us with the fire of your heart
Come, Pentecost Spirit
Bring light and bring strength
Bring tongues filled with truth
Bring passion for the world to know you

Come, Holy Spirit
Unify us in the ways of Christ
Come, Creating Spirit
Bring gifts and bring fruit
Bring life to dry bones
Bring wisdom to live justice and love

Come, Holy Spirit
Come, Holy Spirit
Come, Holy Spirit…

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Prayer for Pentecost © May 22, 2012 Lisa Ann Moss Degrenia
You are welcome to use this work in a worship setting with proper attribution. Please contact Lisa for information and permission to publish this work in any form. Lisa is especially interested in collaborating with someone to set this text to original music.

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