Eye of the Heart

John 14:8-17 (25-27)

Father Mark reflects on the underappreciated significance of Pentecost, contrasting it with culturally embraced holidays like Christmas and Easter. He suggests that Pentecost’s focus on the Holy Spirit—something unseen and internal—makes it difficult for many, particularly modern Americans, to fully grasp or celebrate. He points out how people often seek God externally, missing the deep spiritual truth that God’s presence is already within and among us. Even Philip, who spent years with Jesus, struggled to recognize the divine in Him, looking for physical evidence rather than perceiving with the “eye of the heart.”

The sermon encourages a turn inward to rediscover spiritual awareness. Citing figures like Meister Eckhart and Henri Nouwen, Father Mark underscores the importance of solitude, silence, and contemplative prayer as essential practices for connecting with the indwelling Spirit. Jesus Himself modeled this rhythm of withdrawal and engagement—finding power and clarity through quiet communion with God. The Holy Spirit is not only a spectacle of fire and wind but also a gentle, sustaining presence that abides within us when we cultivate space through prayer.

Father Mark praises the loving spirit of Christ’s Church, attributing its welcoming nature not to programs or traditions alone, but to the prayerful openness of its members. The unseen spiritual current that animates the parish comes from those who faithfully practice daily prayer, spiritual listening, and intentional community. Pentecost, then, should be seen not only as a miraculous historical event but as an ongoing celebration of God’s Spirit transforming us quietly from within.

Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.