Monday 20 May 2024

Psalm 18

Background
The book of Joel was written at a time when things were tough. His message is one that speaks of a future hope. This prophecy of Joel is repeated in the Pentecost speech of Peter read yesterday. (Acts 2:14-21) This passage is intergenerational, if not completely inclusive.

In Holy Week I joined the Cliff College Trek in Cornwall. Through wet and often muddy coastal paths it was a joy to listen to those beginning in mission and ministry. It is the same joy I felt working with young people from 3Generate (the children and youth assembly of The Methodist Church) as they asked important questions.

I pray that as a Church we have realised the importance of learning from the enthusiasm of the young, who may not see things as those of greater years do, but filled with the Spirit seek to do great things for the Kingdom. It reminds us that God’s Spirit falls upon us all and that we are required to recognise that we each have a part to play.

Numbers 11 is an account of shared authority. The Spirit of God is to be shared with 70 men. Eldad and Medad aren’t in the right place but still receive God’s Spirit. At v. 28 Joshua tells Moses to stop them, but Moses declares “Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit on them!”

Pentecost is the fulfilment of this statement. The poet and hymn-writer Brian Wren puts it this way:

Women and men, in age and youth,
can feel the Spirit, hear the call,
and find the way, the life, the truth,
revealed in Jesus, freed for all. (StF 297 verse 4)

Today’s words are stirring, speaking of hope and all generations recognising the power of the Spirit at work in lives. How often has the Church acted like Joshua, seeking always good order and understanding, when we should have been more like Moses, encouraging and enabling God’s Spirit to be seen in the lives and actions of all who follow Jesus?

Those called to live in the promise of the Spirit, should be open to see things that aren’t already here and look longingly to the future.

To Ponder:

• How can we support the enthusiasm of others and learn new ways while still holding on to that which is precious to us?
• How might young and old work alongside one another in sharing the grace of God so others may hear?

Prayer
Gracious God, we thank you for pouring out your Spirit on all people. We rejoice in the enthusiasm of the young and the wisdom of the experienced. Help us to learn and share across the generations and genders as we continue to seek the guidance of your Spirit. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Paul Davis
Paul served for 40 years as a Methodist minister, most recently serving as Chair of the Lancashire District. He currently sits on the board of Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes.