Pentecost

You probably know this is a windsock or a type of kite. It was invented many years ago in Japan and was flown on "Boys Day." Families would hang one windsock for each son in their family. You might’ve seen one at an airport, too. They show pilots which way the wind is blowing so they can take off and land safely. They’re even used to help guide the Space Shuttle pilots. 

No one can see the wind, but we know the wind is there because it moves the windsock. But just because we can’t see the wind, that doesn’t mean it’s not important. The wind helps us cool off when we get hot; it cleans the air from smog; and it can even be used to power our homes. What other things can you think of that the wind does? (Pause.)

God’s Spirit is kind of like the wind. We can’t see the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit is very important and always with us. What is something else you can think of that you can’t see but is still very important? (Pause.)

When God sent His Holy Spirit to be with His people for the first time, it was like a mighty, rushing wind. (Lead kids in making a “whoosh!” sound.) Many churches still celebrate that special day. It’s called the day of Pentecost. A bunch of believers were all gathered together. (Turn on the fan, and blow it on the children.) When the loud wind came, they saw what looked like tongues of fire that came to rest on each of them, and all of them were filled with the Holy Spirit. How would you feel if you saw fire coming down on your head? Would you be scared? (Pause.) 

The Holy Spirit helped them share God’s message of love with everyone around by speaking other languages! When we believe, God puts His Holy Spirit in us, too. (While still feeling the wind from the fan, invite children to say “I believe!” and say an affirmation over each child, such as “God’s Holy Spirit lives in you!”)

There are so many ways the Holy Spirit helps us every day. You might say, "He is the wind in your socks!"

Dear God, we thank You for sending Your Holy Spirit to comfort us, guide us, and live within us. In Jesus’ name, amen.