The Holy Spirit unites and empowers the Church.
The Argentine footballer Diego Maradona once said, “The game of football is like a canvas, and it’s up to the players to paint the most beautiful picture.” Coming from a player widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time, these words capture how people can come together to create something far greater than the sum of their parts. It is amazing what we can achieve when we work together.
This is why the Jesus’ Church is encouraged so often in the New Testament to be as one — “being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind” (Philippians 2:2 ESV).
The Gospel accounts reveal that the disciples struggled at times to work together in unity. The disciples argued with each other about who was the greatest amongst them (Mark 10:35). One of the disciples refused to believe the others unless he saw it with his own eyes (John 20:25). The story changes, though, when we come to the book of Acts. Instead of distrusting and competing against each other, they begin to work together. And the results are astonishing!
What brings about this change? The answer is the Holy Spirit. The Father sent the Spirit on the Son’s behalf to unite and empower the Church. So, in the power of the Spirit, may we:
Ask and receive in faith. We can ask God directly to fill us with the Holy Spirit, trusting that he will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask.
Surrender daily. We can consciously yield our will, plans, and desires to God each day, offering our lives as living sacrifices.
Cultivate a life of prayer and Scripture. Prioritise consistent prayer and reflection on the Bible. The Spirit often moves through his word.
Acknowledge dependence. Rely entirely on the Holy Spirit rather than our own strength, knowing he is already present in our midst.
If, as Maradona said, 11 players working together can create something beautiful on the football pitch, imagine what the Church — empowered by the Holy Spirit — can do!
By Gavin Henderson, Superintendent of Europe
Market Harborough, England, UK
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