Understanding the Word

By Dianne Bergant, C.S.A.

The external manifestations that accompanied the outpouring of the Spirit  at the time of Pentecost were all phenomena associated with a theophany or  experience of God. As those in the room were filled with the Spirit, they began to  speak in other languages, a feat that could only have supernatural origin. Because  the Galileans spoke in tongues and those in the crowd heard them in their own  speech, some commentators maintain that there was a miracle in hearing as well  as in speaking. The exact nature of this marvel is less significant than is its meaning. It was clearly a manifestation of the universal presence and power of the Spirit. “Lord” (Kyrios) was the official title of the Roman emperor. Thus, to proclaim Jesus  as Lord was to set up a rivalry between Jesus and the ruling political authority. “Lord”  is also the substitute, in the Septuagint or Greek version of the Old Testament, for  God’s personal name. Paul compares the diversity within the community to the complexity of the human body. Each part has its own unique function, but all parts work  for the good of the whole. This metaphor portrays unity in diversity that is far from  uniformity. It also underscores the lack of competition among members. Finally, it  points up the interdependence that exists within the community. This Gospel account treats the Resurrection and the bestowal of the Spirit as  occurring on the same day. Jesus’ wish of peace is a prayer for the eschatological  blessings of health, prosperity, and all good things. The image of breathing life  into another is reminiscent of the creation of Adam (see Genesis 2:7) and the  restoration of Israel after the Exile (see Ezekiel 37:9). By breathing in this way, the  risen Lord portrays himself as one who can create or re-create. The disciples are  commissioned to go forth, to declare salvation and judgment. With the bestowal  of the Spirit, they are authorized to continue the mission of Jesus. 

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