Holy Spirit Moves

It can be as gentle as a warm summer breeze or as devastating as a gale force. Nothing restricts its fierce movement or determines when it silences. The wind blows where it wills and so does the Holy Spirit.

We called it “Sunrise,” our 22 foot red sailboat. When I was a teenager, my family moved to Long Island. Surrounded by water, my parents purchased a small sailboat for our family to enjoy. Evenings and weekends with good sailing conditions would lead to cruising the harbor and the Long Island Sound. When the winds blew and the sails were positioned just right, it felt like we could sail forever. It was a harmonious movement as the wind met the sail, propelling the boat forward, cutting through waves with ease and determination.

I haven’t sailed in years, nor have I thought about this sailboat from my childhood. Last week though, I felt like I lost the wind in my sail. Not sure I can pinpoint why, but I found myself bobbing at sea, unable to gain momentum or direction. Four plus weeks of Coronavirus and I suppose I hit a lull in the wind. I like momentum and knowing that I am gaining ground. However, that is not always what the wind delivers. One thing is certain, we cannot influence the wind.

As I reflected on this lull, my initial thoughts were: I must be fatigued or weary or lazy. Maybe it is a lack of motivation; all could be true. Further introspection leads me to connect with my spirit. Perhaps, the lull in the wind is in fact the whispers of the Holy Spirit saying, be still, rest and wait. The work of the Spirit is equally significant in both movement and in rest.

“The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)

When the winds cease, the sailboat must acquiesce. It may appear directionless, but only for a time. I too must acquiesce and welcome the lull, bringing stillness and rest. While I wait, the Holy Spirit still moves. The sound of the wind blowing will return and once again the sailboat will find its course.

“…And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” (Genesis 1:2)