As we take the first reading into consideration, we are driven to ponder on the real meaning of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Our Lord Jesus Christ’s great passion, crucifixion, death and resurrection have paved the way to the climax of the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Therefore unless the Lord Jesus Christ became obedient to the almighty Father unto death, this would not have been possible. We are called to die to self and empty ourselves to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Is it easy or can we possibly follow our Master in to receive this great privilege God offers us? Once we come to believe in the Lord Jesus, repent of our sin and ask the Holy Spirit from the Father, he lavishly pardons us and fills us with his Holy Spirit. (Luke 11:13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”). Thus our deepest desire and longing in life should be to be filled with the Holy Spirit. When we are baptized in the Spirit we are empowered to bear witness to Christ our Lord and effortlessly do the impossible.

That is what took place in the lives of the disciples of the Lord Jesus back in the day when they were hiding behind locked doors after their Master’s demise. After the descent of the Holy Spirit they became incredibly bold and fearless. They had the courage and strength to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth and beyond. They even went to the extent of risking their lives, embraced cruel persecution and death. Hence this is the secret weapon, the treasure or wealth hidden revealed to the childlike, humble and faithful of God. (Mat- thew 11:25 “At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children;”). Therefore when we draw close to God we are strengthened to cope up with the pressures of the world through His spirit. We are empowered in our inner beings to bear witness to the Lord Jesus Christ. Then there cannot be a challenge we cannot tackle as it is the Spirit of the Lord that is guiding us.

Prayer: Abba Father, we pray for a fresh in filling of the Holy Spirit, that we will be strengthened, touched and made whole in your Power. Amen