When we talk in Christian circles about the infilling of the Holy Spirit, it’s often about us accessing the Gifts of the Spirit: knowledge, wisdom, faith, miracles, healing, prophecy, and tongues. We think about what we receive from Holy Spirit but do we consider what the Spirit of God receives from us. What does the Spirit experience through us individually and collectively?

I enjoy seeing my children go through the world. When I see their delight, also I feel their joy.  Swimming in a pool is medium fun for me, but super fun for them. I get more enjoyment through their enjoyment. 

I also think my kids are great and I appreciate when other people think my kids are great too. I just brought my daughter to visit my cousin and she had all these sweet little gifts and toys prepared for her and I love that so much. I like my cousin more because she likes my kids. God feels the same way about his children. He told Abraham that he would bless those that blessed him and curse those his dishonored him. Genesis 12:3.

Unfortunately, this connection with my children works in the suffering as well. When I see their disappointment and pain, I feel it all along with them. Jesus responded to the sadness of his friends and companions with grief. John 11:33. I have been to the doctor for myself many times, but there’s nothing more excruciating than being there for your kid who is having a rough time. As parent, you literally would take their pain if you could. 

All that to say, Holy Spirit is like that too. The Holy Spirit identifies directly with the with suffering of the believers. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit visits Paul, who has been jailing and killing believers, and he hears the spirit ask, “Why are you persecuting me?” Acts 9:4. The Holy One inhabits high places and is near the one who has a contrite and lowly spirit. Isaiah 15.

The other thing I want my kids to do is get along. It annoys me when they bicker, but I really am upset when one of them hurts the other. I want them to love and care for each other now, and grow up to be lifelong friends.

If we want to connect with the Spirit, we also have to connect with each other. Jesus promised his Spirit to be wherever two or three gathered. Matthew 28:20 Jesus said that caring for the “least of these” was caring to him. Matthew 25:40. And who are the least of these in his list? They are prisoners, immigrants and homeless, people who society treats as disposable. How we treat others will be called for reckoning. Genesis 9:5-6. 

“Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11