Today’s Reflection
Note: This week’s New Every Morning reflections are structured differently to follow the format of our featured title, Pauses for Pentecost, which contains 50 days of reflections based on a scripture theme and followed by a daily practice.
Maybe we too need an upper room where we can wait and pray in preparation for a fresh outpouring of the Spirit. You might remember Jesus once told his disciples that when they pray, they need to go into a room, close the door, and speak to their Father in secret. (See Matthew 6:6.) As we move toward Pentecost, I invite you to do this quite literally. It could cause this Pentecost to be vastly different from all the others. Indeed, it may be the day when the spring of the Spirit turns your life into a deep reservoir from which life-giving streams begin to flow toward others around you.
—Trevor Hudson, Pauses for Pentecost: 50 Words for Easter People (Upper Room Books, 2018)
Today’s Practice
Today, find a few minutes to go into your room, close the door, and ask the Father to prepare your heart to receive a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
When [the apostles] arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying.
—Acts 1:13 (NIV)
Prayer for the Week
Holy Spirit,
Turn my life into a deep reservoir from which life-giving streams begin to flow toward others around me.
Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Looking for a music collection that contains new and classic hymns, psalm settings, Taizé music, global songs, liturgies, and prayer songs? The Upper Room Worshipbook is a rich resource for choirs and anyone who wants to enrich their personal devotions. Learn more.
Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
Day of Pentecost (Sunday, May 23)
- Acts 2:1-21 or Ezekiel 37:1-14
- Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
- Romans 8:22-27 or Acts 2:1-21
- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
4 Comments
Since today we are asked to participate in a practice, it does not warrent a comment. I will say that I have tryiing to this since the first of the year with litttle success. I renew my determination.
So yesterday morning I received an email from my lawyer forwarding to me a letter from h’s lawyer withdrawing the petition that he had tried to enforce! I have a meeting with my lawyer tomorrow to discuss what comes next which will include the court date next week to discuss what needs to be done to move forward. I am nervous and unsure especially regarding the timeline.
Prayers for Ally as she begins her new job and her David’s health. Prayers for Jill and Larry as they enjoy the beautiful weather in our area and garden. Prayers for Lou as she travels. Prayers for Marcy who responded to my texts that she is suffering from her emotional issues and needs to fiind a new psychiatrist and be prescribed new meds. Prayers for Robert and Erich and their counselor, may all work well together.
My friend told me about the pastor’s sermon (from my previous church) this past Sunday. I found it on line and listened to it last night while working in the yard. It was really good and he ended with a beautiful prayer – coming before God…”just as I am” and simply asking Him to guide me. I tried, afresh, this morning – in prayer – to be utterly open and aware before Him. Sometimes I over-think things or try to be too…something… But I just need to be there, with Him, open and allow Him to “have Thine own way, Lord.” Cease striving and words and just be with. Yes.
Julie – I think (?) this is good news, from your lawyer. Praying it is, and it is an encouragement to you. Praying, too, that you are less sore today and more mobile.
My first class asked to go sit outside this morning. One of their classmates is immuno compromised and has not returned to school. When she found out we were going to be outside, she drove to the school and joined us outdoors. It was good for both her and her peers. She has the most pleasant personality – and through all of this she has remained upbeat and cheerful. My other class today is taking an AP exam – so today is a breeze for me. I am making up my final exams, using my time well.
I cut some of my lilacs this morning and made two bouquets to bring in to school. One of the assistant principals had walked past my office two years ago when I had brought some in and commented on how good they smelled. Unfortunately that was the Friday before Memorial Day – and by the end of the long weekend – my lilac bush was mostly done, so I couldn’t bring her any. So, one of the bouquets was for her. The other I intended to have in my room – but as I thought about it on the way to school – I thought I would give it to the teacher across the hall from me. She was new to the school last year – and we have struck up a bit of a relationship, often walking out of school together. So -I gave them to her. She loved them and said she would take them home to her husband as they were his mother’s favorite. I should be able to bring in another bouquet tomorrow – and will put it in my classroom.
Tennis again this evening – at another club. A late start of 8:00, but should be done by 10:00 – as they have 8 courts to use and we should all begin and finish up about the same time. Still a late night for me. Hopefully a nap is in the works when I get home from school today.
I have, over the past several years, taken times of personal retreat for 2-3 days at a convent or monastery. Getting to a quiet place helps me hear God’s voice. Clearing away all the noise opens my heart to Holy Spirit’s leading. Making quiet time each day, making time with God a priority, is my goal for this year. P!ease continue to pray for little Connor. He is a little more stable, not needing as much O2, but still retaining fluid, which impedes heart function. David is dealing with depression. Been sleeping a lot and amd weepy. Pray he will do what Dr. suggests. Continue prayers for this job and the opportunities it may bring. We are trusting God’s provision. Thank you for your prayers.
Julie, I’m with Jill in thinking this new development may be a good thing. May God ease your anxiety. Praying for the hearing and that you are recovering from your fall. Good to hear from Marcy and praying that she finds a new psychiatrist and that a change in meds helps her to feel better. Jill, I’m glad to hear that your student was able to attend your outdoor class and for the blessing of your lilacs. I enjoyed lilacs during my years in Kentucky. They are beautiful and their scent is heavenly. Alas, Central GA is too warm to grow them. Prayers continue for you and your students as you wrap up your school year. Lou, still praying traveling graces and for your family visit, Robert, prayers for you and Erich as you start with a new counselor. I’m thankful for UR, this forum, and the resources here. I’m a 3rd Generation UR reader and cherish this ministry. Blessings to all.
Started my day preparing to lead the book of Hebrews Bible study, the pastor had a meeting to attend. Finished chapters 12-13 . This has become a favorite book of the NT. There is so much in this book. Then off on the spur of the moment with my soon driving to Rochester NH on an errand, got back a few minutes late for a condo association board meeting, that went well. Next was a late lunch-early supper, watched some of the news, a new drama, and check my email.
Yes, going into a room. closing the door, and being able to talk to God in private is a great blessing. I’m thankful this is possible no matter where you are.
The news from your lawyer, Julie, is very good. I’m in agreement with Jill and Ally, and hope this leads the way to a positive outcome soon.
The power of lilacs! They are in bloom here and I never tire of their fragrance, glad Jill had positive experiences with them, Hope all went well with tennis, you are done by now. Need lots of energy to teach all day and play tennis into the night. Spring term done soon.
Marcy surely is in our prayers. She faces many challenges every day. The Brill car has its interior painted, now I can work on the car body exterior. It looks very Central Vermont with the right rear doors and distinctive car front door.
Thankful Ally has a new job, hope it works out. My Dad was an UR reader.. Prayers for David.
A day we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit is fast approaching. “Got the Spirit?” Wear red!
Making some progress here, new techno dj music being worked and a children’s book about cats being written. The custom tv stand is ready for cutting and assembly. Car inspection – tire changing
coming up. Pearl will have her teeth cleaned, a possibly fractured one pulled.
A phone call with my sister tomorrow.. Thank You, Lord.
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