Today is Pentecost Sunday. By all memories, this is the day the Holy Spirit came down from heaven and descended on the apostles. My church was closed once again because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As I have done in the past, I found church services on the internet that were very comforting, but I realized very quickly that I was moved more by the wonderful musical performances on YouTube. You see, I pray with my music, and that art form has soothed my soul for many years. Music allows me to pray without words. In contrast to the instrumental music I heard, it was the choral music performed by the Duke University Chorale and Orchestra, the Fort Dallas Choir and Orchestra, and the Portland Ensign Choir and Orchestra that brought the Holy Spirit to my heart. The three arrangements were “The Church’s One Foundation,” “The Battle Hymn of the republic,” and “Eternal Father Strong to Save.” The pieces allowed the Holy Spirit to descend on my heart, if only for a few moments and in the quiet of my home.
The Holy Spirit is truth, love, power, peace, and right; these five things help my soul to breathe in the light of God, inspire my heart to reach for my highest desires, strengthen my will to strive for noble service, calm my restless soul in times of stress, and guide my conscience to be free of worldly distractions. God placed His hand on me before I was born, my parents pledged to raise me up in the church, I asked God to guide me at my own confirmation, and now, I can feel God’s Holy Spirit resting in my soul as I approach each day. Yet, that love divine returns every Pentecost to my mind, heart, and soul as the blessing I need to continue on towards my heavenly home. I am marked with the sign of the cross, and I know that my Redeemer lives.
In the Spirit of gentleness blowing through my wilderness, I found my Savior, Jesus Christ. He walks beside me and carries me when I fall. Spirit of love be with me now and forever more. Amen.
Anna Hartt
