Many things we do in church point to deeper significance. These are actions rooted in Scripture and meaningful traditions handed down through time to us today. Some things, however, are just things we do and continue doing without understanding why. It can be the sacred equivalent of “on Wednesdays, we wear pink.” While rituals and symbols which reinforce our identity as members of a particular tribe in high school, social organization, or other group certainly have their purpose, they can also serve as signs of exclusion to those on the outside.
Wearing red on Pentecost, however, is a great tradition: it’s an outward sign of the inward transformation by the Holy Spirit in each of our hearts. As “tongues of fire” came to rest on these disciples on that first Pentecost long ago, we gather together and then leave still blazing with the fire of hope God offers all through God’s Spirit. The red is a sign that the good news of Jesus came to all who were there in a language they could understand from people with whom they would not otherwise have communicated.
Therefore, take this as an invitation: wear red. On Sunday. This Sunday in particular. You are invited into this body of Christ and also into proclaiming the reality of grace, hope, and salvation in Jesus.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Ben
Reckless Generosity