TrinityWomen News You Can Use: March 2016
March is the month that is known for being windy. When I think of wind, I’m reminded of the fact that in scripture, the words “wind” or “breath” are often used as symbols of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, describing the salvation experience in John 3:8 said, “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
In his first post-resurrection appearance to the band of disciples, Jesus commissioned them for service in a very special way. 21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” John 20:21-22
Shortly before His ascension, Jesus commanded the disciples to remain in Jerusalem and to wait for the Promise of the Father, revealed in Acts 1:4 as the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Jesus told them that the Holy Spirit would empower them to be His witnesses “…in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Finally, on the Day of Pentecost, those 120 disciples who were gathered in the Upper Room experienced the fulfillment of Jesus’ word. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Acts 2:2-4
Now this collection of scriptures is not just interesting history without any relevance for you today. The Apostle Peter, in his sermon that followed moments after this Day of Pentecost experience, said something very important to the thousands of people who were gathered to hear him speak. 38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:38-39 Has the Lord called you unto Himself? Have you experienced the new birth? If so, the promise of the Holy Spirit is for you, too.
As you go about your daily tasks or face those special times of challenge during this windy month of March, allow the gentle breeze or the fierce wind to remind you that you have the guarantee of the abiding Holy Spirit. Our Lord said, “… He dwells with you and will be in you.” John 14:17 With His empowerment, asII Peter 1:3 says, “… God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know Him, the One who called us to Himself by means of His marvelous glory and excellence.” (NLT)
Breathe on me, Breath of God/fill me with life anew/that I may love what thou dost love/and do what thou wouldst do. Breathe on me, Breath of God/until my heart is pure/until with thee I will one will/to do and to endure. Breathe on me, Breath of God/till I am wholly thine/till all this earthly part of me/glows with thy fire divine. Breathe on me, Breath of God/so shall I never die/but live with thee the perfect life/of thine eternity.
Edwin Hatch, 1878
In this month’s newsletter, you’ll find our small group meetings listed in a feature titled, “The Gathering Place”. Calla Merkle wrote the piece that is found in the “TWAM” section. In “The Family Room”, we have an article supplied by Cheryl Joel. Elaine Bumbaugh shares a devotional lesson with us in the “Walking with Jesus” feature. The “God’s Money and You” article is written by CPA, Loema Titanji. In our health and wellness-based feature, “Making Me Whole”, we have an article provided by Phyllis Wade, a certified medical assistant. Look in “The Cook’s Corner” for a recipe from the kitchen of Chelsea Franco. The “Sneak Peeks” section will give you a hint of future growth and fellowship opportunities and we list some other ways that you can connect with us in the “Did You Know?” feature. Enjoy!
