Water - Image of the Spirit

Fifty days after Easter, our Church celebrates Pentecost – the coming of the Holy Spirit and dwelling with us. Theologian, Elizabeth Johnson, encourages us to reflect on nature to learn something of the Spirit. Elizabeth suggests considering ways in which wind, fire, and water speak to us of the Spirit.

Water is part of our everyday lives, and we know it constitutes a high percentage of our very bodies. I wonder if in suggesting water is Elizabeth Johnson reminding us that the Spirit is part of our everyday lives as well.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Tahquamenon Falls in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. One sees water there in abundance, power, and beauty. It serves as a reminder of how essential water is to life. We know by experience the gifts of water. Even its sight can refresh and replenish us.

Whether it is swimming in a lake, taking a shower, drinking a glass of water, deep-sea diving in the ocean or simply gazing upon it – water has a beauty and power of its own. We know what happens to the earth and crops when there is a severe lack of water or too much water, we have seen or perhaps experienced the disasters of storms or floods.  

While some of us live where clean water is available, we also know that for many of our sisters and brothers there is a severe deprivation of that essential need.  

As we reflect on water, we might ask ourselves a couple of questions. First, am I grateful for the gift of water, and if so, how do I manifest that in my life. Secondly, is there any activity which I feel invited to join. There are many different organizations that work for the conservation of water and/or advocacy groups pertaining to water. 

“As the deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, my God.” Psalm 41