Pentecost reminds us that we are not alone. Jesus promised a Helper—and the Holy Spirit came with power, equipping ordinary people to do extraordinary things. It’s a celebration of bold faith, divine purpose, and unity in the Spirit.

What it means for us today:

• We have access to the same Spirit
• We are called to carry the fire
• We are empowered to witness, serve, and love

It’s a great joy to be on The Lord’s side! We are to use the vast of our portions to honor God, and it feels amazing to have been introduced to New Birth as a new member and humble servant of the communications ministry. In Dr. Bryant’s previous message, covering the power of the anointing, he rocked the congregation and drove some major points home. He stated, “Excuses are the tools of the incompetent, and while we might not know what we have, the enemy does.” That message unleashed a new vigor in me, and I pray it did for you, too. The oil brings us not only power, promise, and purpose but peace, prosperity, and provision also!

Today, I pray this piece finds you well. Let’s dive into what Pentecost is, shall we? Pentecost literally means “fiftieth,” signifying the 50th day after Resurrection Sunday. We’ve come so far from that great service, and I still feel blessed and so full. In the New Testament, Pentecost significantly marked the descent of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Christian Church. It was the moment the gospel began to be preached in power to all nations.

“And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind… And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost.” – Acts 2:2-4

We are so blessed to call New Birth home because we get to experience moments like the one mentioned in Acts 2:2-4 twice a week, during Sunday service and Tuesday’s Group Therapy. The Word of God is preached to us in such a powerful way that our spirits are stirred up, and we all rejoice and sing His praises in unity. One of The Father’s greatest delights is praise and worship from His children. I find that time each week so sacred, and I am learning to prioritize my time with Him outside of His house as well.

Here’s a thought: in honor of Pentecost Sunday, let us dedicate not only 10 percent of our earnings but 10 percent of every day to The Lord our God. Only two and a half hours is 10 percent of your day. I challenge every reader to dig deep, fight their flesh, and honor God daily through reading the Word, praying, and worshipping – if you aren’t already. When I’m running on empty, this practice is the oil that keeps me running.

Pentecost is so important because it brought about empowerment as believers were filled with the Holy Spirit to speak in tongues and boldly proclaim Christ. It was the beginning of evangelism globally as the church shifted from small groups to being spread to all nations. Pentecost marked a fresh wind of unity and the fulfillment of a great promise that the Holy Spirit would come as a comforter, teacher, and helper (John 14:26).

Pentecost ties to the Modern Black Church in many ways, but the one I found the most moving is our spirit-led services and expressions like shouting, dancing, prophecy, and tongues—all these are expressions of Pentecost. We love us some God, and we are not afraid to show it! These expressions are foundational to Black worship and directly tied to how Pentecost shifted the dynamic of praise and worship. What a blessing it is to honor that even now at New Birth!

Let’s continue to honor Pentecost yearly by revisiting and celebrating its meaning. We can commemorate Pentecost by praying for fresh fire, encouraging prayer and openness to the Holy Spirit in our personal lives, and using the gifts of the Spirit (wisdom, healing, tongues, discernment) with purpose daily.

Parris Stewart