Pentecost is a celebration of the church's beginning. The coming of the Spirit brought great excitement and power to those early disciples of Jesus. In an extraordinary way, the presence of God was heard, seen, and felt as the rush of mighty wind, the tongues of fire, and the speaking in various languages which came upon them. As the story unfolds that day, there are about 3,000 souls added to the newly formed church. It is fitting for us to celebrate this day with great enthusiasm and joy.

Yet, there is also another side to Pentecost. It is a quieter, more reflective aspect. It is not opposed to the more exuberant side of Pentecost but is a complimentary facet to our understanding. Today's Gospel Reading helps us see this side of Pentecost.

The Gospel of John addresses the need for the …