May 20, 2018 Pentecost Sunday B

Acts of the Apostles 1:1-11

Psalm 47

1 Corinthians 12:3-7. 12-13

John 20:19-23

To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.  1 Cor. 12:7

Lord, this time of year is graduation time for many of us.  We have completed our studies and are going out into the real world to apply what we have learned.  For many this can be a scary time.  We wonder if we are up to the demands of a new job or position in life.  I sometimes think I am limited, not prepared, or incapable of doing what you have called me to do.  It’s more comfortable and secure in the status quo of my comfort zone.  I hesitate to accept new challenges or bigger tasks.  If the Apostles felt that way the church never would have made it out of the upper room.  Your Spirit gave them courage and a drive to use the gifts and talents they never knew they had.  They graduated from that upper room and, in faith, relied on the grace of the Spirit to do things they never thought possible.  Lord, may I use the Spirit you gave me in the same way.  Help me not to be timid or afraid of stepping out in faith to serve in whatever way you have called me.  Amen.