And in the Holy Spirit, Lord and Giver of Life, who proceeds from the Father, who together with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who spoke by the prophets... —Nicene Creed
The Descent of the Holy Spirit
Pentecost marks the moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, empowering them to spread the Gospel. "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me." (John 15:26)
The Spirit of God, eternally existing with the Father and the Son, became a guiding force, filling the disciples with divine inspiration. This moment was not simply about receiving knowledge but about being moved to action, urged forward in faith. The Holy Spirit manifested in a truly miraculous and mysterious way, giving the Apostles the ability to speak in many languages so that all could understand the message of the Gospel.
Today, with over 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, communication serves as one of the most powerful bridges connecting us together. Now, imagine possessing the ability to understand and communicate in every language. How much deeper would our connections be? Yet, even when speaking the same language, misunderstandings are very common. Language evolves across generations, shaping the way we express ourselves.
Digital communication certainly complicates this further. Tone and intent often get lost in emails or text messages. A simple "K" in a message can feel dismissive, even when no offense was intended. Cultural differences also play a role, influencing how words and even gestures are perceived. When we don't understand these nuances, we become angry, upset, and ultimately disconnected.
Hearing vs Listening: The True Gift of Pentecost
There is a profound difference between hearing and listening. Hearing is passive, requiring no effort. Sounds enter our ears but do not necessarily create understanding. Listening, however, is an intentional action and openness to receiving truth. It's a willingness to engage, ask questions, and connect beyond the surface. Too often we assume comprehension without fully processing the speaker's intent. The Apostles did not just hear foreign words; they comprehended them in a way beyond natural ability, as the Holy Spirit broke through barriers so that truth could be received.
This distinction applies to how we hear God in our own lives. His voice calls us through scripture, thoughts, prayers, even words of a friend in need. But do we listen? Do we recognize these moments that are inviting us to act?
Embracing Holy Moments
The Holy Spirit continues to speak, to guide, and to call us to deeper understanding. I like to think of these thoughts and messages we receive as Holy Moments. Like the Apostles, we must shift from passive hearing to active listening and embrace these Holy Moments. Only then can we truly grasp what God is telling us. Not just in words, but in His presence, His nudges, and His invitations towards authenticity and connection.
Dearest friends, let us open our hearts to listen to the people around us, to the whisper of the Holy Spirit, and to the moments that are calling us forward in faith. Will we hear? Most importantly, will we listen?
Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, everywhere present and filling all things, Treasury of blessings and Giver of life: come and abide in us, cleanse us from every impurity and save our souls, O Good One.
With Love in Christ,
Maria
 Originally published in the Holy Apostles E-bulletin. Subscribe here.
