Starter:
Recall an incident, (perhaps you were on foreign holiday),
when language became a barrier.
Were you able to resolve the situation?
Worship:
Reading: John 14:8-17 & 25-27, (Acts 2:1-21)
Read the passage aloud again, then re-read silently along with the Commentary. Reflect on the personal questions individually before sharing your thoughts in groups of three.
Commentary:
For this Sunday the lectionary cycle takes the primary theme of 'the Holy Spirit', though the dramatic events described in the traditional Pentecost reading of Acts 2 is also a suggested reading. John's gospel has often been labeled the 'Gospel of the Spirit' due to its extensive consideration of the Spirit throughout the gospel. For John, Pentecost does not happen fifty days after Easter, but on Easter evening (John 20:19-23). John helps us to think of the Spirit in other ways than sheer excitement or emotional agitation.
The apostles receive the Spirit which Jesus tells them about and they are now given 'power' to do what Jesus did; forgive sins, heal divisions, bring about reconciliation and joy to all. All Christians are commissioned and given power to carry on this ministry. (Baranowski adapted)
Personal Reflection:
1. What thoughts come to mind as you read this passage?
What might God be saying?
2. Recall a time when you wanted to (or did) shut yourself off from
life around you.
Who or what brought you out again?
3. In your own spiritual journey do you find it easier to relate to one
member of the Trinity more than the other members?
4. Do you feel the Spirit prompting you to something new and
challenging?
When you have finished sharing your reflections, offer any personal insights to the group as a whole.
Then discuss the following questions together.
Life Focus:
1. The writers of the Bible describe the Spirit in many different ways
(these are multiplied by the various translations which translate
the same word differently)
how many words can the group recall that describe the Spirit?
How has the Spirit been experienced?
2. Which gifts of the Spirit can you identify in your community?
3. Share times when you have spoken to someone and your words
have been 'misunderstood', but still they helped a person.
How was the Spirit at work in those situations?
Review Time:
Recall anything from previous weeks which needs attention.
Prayer Time:
Thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Pray for those who 'wait behind locked door in fear and trembling'.
In the silence ask the Spirit to come upon you afresh.
Next Meeting:
Fix date and venue of next meeting.
