May 24- Given  (Day of Pentecost) - Paul Walker 
Scripture: Acts 2:1–4; John 14:15–28

As the disciples wait together in the upper room, the silence is suddenly broken by “a sound like a violent rushing wind,” and what seems like tongues of fire rest on each of them (Acts 2:2–3). This is no ordinary moment. What was promised by Jesus is now given—the Holy Spirit, not as an abstract force, but as the living presence of God filling his people. The room that was marked by waiting becomes a place of overflow, where prayer turns into proclamation and fear gives way to boldness. What they could not produce on their own is now freely received. The Spirit gives them what they need to participate in what God is doing. They are empowered to speak, to witness, to carry the good news beyond themselves. The miracle is not just in the tongues of fire, but in the reality that God equips ordinary people for extraordinary participation. The Spirit does not come as a reward for worthiness, but as a gift of grace. As Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you… do not let your hearts be troubled” (John 14:27). The same Spirit who teaches, reminds, and leads is the Spirit who meets us in our weakness and gives what we lack. Pentecost reminds us that the life of faith is not something we manufacture—it is something we receive. The disciples did not strive their way into power; they opened themselves to gift. And so it is with us. The Spirit still comes, still surprises, still provides. What we are called into, we are also given the grace to live out.

Desired Outcome: To cultivate trust that the Holy Spirit is given freely—and that we will receive everything needed to participate in the Risen One’s life and mission.