Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Holy Spirit, Renew Us"

Bible Reading: John 16:7-13

Key verse: “I will send the Advocate to you… He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:7,13)
 
DEVOTION

Today, we celebrate Pentecost—the fiery fulfillment of God’s ancient promise. Long ago, Joel prophesied that God’s Spirit would be poured out on all people (Joel 2:28), and Jesus assured us the Holy Spirit would dwell within us as our Helper and Guide. This same Spirit, who empowered the disciples to preach boldly (Acts 2:1-21), is alive in us today. Pentecost was first a harvest festival, thanking God for Earth’s bounty and also the remembrance of getting the Laws through Moses.  For us Christians, it marks the Holy Spirit’s arrival or inauguration of the Church, renewing hearts and empowering us to live as Christ’s witnesses. As we also observe Environment Sunday, we remember the Spirit’s call to steward God’s creation. Just as the first Pentecost brought unity and purpose, the Holy Spirit today invites us to be renewed—personally, in community, and in caring for the Earth.
Let’s invite the Holy Spirit to renew us—asking Him to show areas where pride, division, or neglect of creation have slipped into our lives, and surrender these to His healing. Together, let’s nurture the fruit the Spirit grows in us, like love, joy, or peace. We can choose one fruit today—maybe showing kindness, forgiving someone, or sharing hope—and practice it as a community. Let’s also care for God’s world in simple, practical ways: reducing waste in our homes, planting trees, or speaking up for those harmed by environmental injustice. As we walk step-by-step with the Spirit, He will align our hearts and actions with His purpose for renewal.

PRAYER

O Holy Spirit, renew us with Your life. Heal our bonds, guide our steps, and forgive our neglect of Your creation. Make us more like Jesus, and renew Your Church and world. Amen.


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

"The Holy Spirit renews, reveals truth, and heals divisions. Let His fire ignite us to spread love, justice, and care for God’s creation."

Rev M C, Varghese, The Mar Thoma Church Staten Island, Staten Island, NY.

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