The Holy Spirit: A Gift!

The Holy Spirit is probably the most misunderstood member of the Triune God. There are all kinds of ideas about him, and I used to have some of those ideas and believed he wasn't God, but an extension of God's power. As I began to learn more about God's nature as a Trinity, my eyes were opened to the mysterious diversity of God. He is still a mystery to me, but in the New Testament we are given many clues as to his nature and identity which are worth studying.

The questions I ask myself are, who and what is the Holy Spirit for me personally and what does he mean to me? My relationship with God includes that I also have an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. He points me to the truth - the truth is Jesus Christ Himself. He said: «I am the way and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14,6).

That's good, He is our Savior, Savior, Redeemer and our Life. The Holy Spirit is the one who aligns me with Jesus to take first place in my heart. He keeps my conscience awake and lets me know when I'm doing or saying something that's wrong. He is the illuminating light on my life path. I've also started to see him as my "ghostwriter," my inspiration, and my muse. He doesn't need any special attention. When I pray to any member of the triune God, I pray to all equally, for all are one. He would turn around and give to the Father every honor and attention we give him.

Thus began a new epoch in which God offers us a new way of connecting with Him and living in a living relationship. The people listening to Peter at Pentecost were moved by his words and asked what they could do? Peter answers them: «Repent now and be baptized into Jesus Christ; let his name be called out over you and confess to him - each and every one of the people! Then God will forgive you your sins and give you his Holy Spirit" (Acts 2,38 Good News Bible). Anyone who turns to the triune God and submits to him, entrusts his life to him, does not stand in a lost position, but receives the Holy Spirit, he becomes a Christian, i.e. a follower, a disciple of Jesus Christ.

It is a wonderful thing that we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the invisible representative of Jesus on earth. It still works the same to this day. He is the third person of the Trinity to be present at creation. He completes the divine communion and he is a blessing to us. Most gifts lose their luster or are soon given up for something better, but He, the Holy Spirit, is a gift that never ceases to be a blessing. He is the one whom Jesus sent after his death to comfort, teach, guide and remind us of all he has done and will do and what Jesus is for us. It strengthens faith, gives hope, courage and peace. How wonderful to receive such a gift. May you, dear reader, never lose your wonder and awe that you are and are continually being blessed by the Holy Spirit.

by Tammy Tkach