I have baptized you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. (Mark 1:8 ESV)
Just as swans swim and gain life from the water, humans gain life from the Holy Spirit. “The Seven Swans A’ Swimming” was code for the seven gifts from the Holy Spirit. Some churches emphasize these gifts of Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety and Fear of the Lord. The gifts have influence over one’s ability to follow Christ.
When a gift is unused, clean and pristine in the original box, it may bring money value on the Antique Roadshow, but its true value and purpose is lost. When one asks God to help unwrap the gift, from it will flow the Fruit of the Holy Spirit which are Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control.
Several years ago I asked God to show me humility. Humility falls under the gift of Fear of the Lord. The Lord quickly answered that prayer and is continuing to do so. People are noticing that I have more gentleness, peace and love. The gift of the Fear of the Lord has been unwrapped down to the tissue paper, so there is more learning and life to be received from the Lord.
We receive the Holy Spirit through Jesus. What a wonderful gift of life Jesus gave to us by coming to earth as a baby human being.
Thank you, Lord, for your wonderful gift of life.
© 2013 Mary Burkey
1 comment:
Mary, the fruits of the Spirit do show in your mild demeanor. You bless others by your actions. God be with you at this special time of year.
E. Bonnie
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