Pentecost is a celebration that commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ.
When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors were locked where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. John 20:19-22
The Greek word for “spirit” is pneuma, which means “breath.” When we speak about the Holy Spirit, we also speak about the breath of God, breathing in us. In this way, we can use the symbol of breath to bring our attention back to God.
The symbol of breath can remind us of the movement and power of the Holy Spirit. We may not see the Spirit, but we know he is working, and we can experience him.
The spiritual practice of breath prayer can be used to position ourselves to focus on the breath of the Holy Spirit in us. Here is a simple prayer guide that we can use:
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- Get comfortable and close your eyes.
- As you are in the rhythm of breathing, integrate these phrases:
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- “Breathe on me, Holy Spirit” (inhale)
- “Holy Spirit, Breathe on me” (exhale)
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- Continue for as long as it feels comfortable and meaningful.
May you have a Spirit-filled celebration of Pentecost.
Prayer:
Pentecost reminds us of your presence and power, Holy Spirit. You are the breath of life. Amen.
By Justine Paolo G. Parcasio, Pastor
Baguio, Luzon, Philippines
Adapted from the Equipper article, “Symbols of Pentecost.” Read the full article here.
