Filled With the Spirit
Ephesians 5:15-20
15 Be careful then how
you live, not as unwise people but as wise, 16 making the most of the
time, because the days are evil. 17 So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of
the Lord is. 18 Do
not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit,
19 as
you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and
making melody to the Lord in your hearts, 20 giving thanks to God
the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ.
How do we get "filled with
the Spirit?" We received the Holy Spirit in baptism, but doesn't it seem
that some people seem more in tune with God and God's people than others?
Here's one way to be filled with the Spirit:
In the
reading from Ephesians we are encouraged to give “thanks to God the Father at all times and for
everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph. 5:20). Orthodox Christians teach a traditional
practice known as the Jesus Prayer. The prayer is simple: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a
sinner.” This
is not just something you say just once; rather, you repeat and pray these
simple words, silently or aloud, as you breathe in and out, in and out. The
practice begins as an intentional act, but over time it grows deep roots and
becomes part of who you are, a constant reminder of the grace-filled presence
of God in your life. (sundaysandseasons.com)
If you want more information on
the Jesus Prayer, check out this website: http://www.svots.edu/saying-jesus-prayer.
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