Of course, I am speaking here about the twelve Fruits and seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Our God is not one who leaves us ill-equipped for mission! In fact, God gave us eveyrthing we needed when he gave us the Holy Spirit. As we celebrate the Confirmation of our youth today, it is so appropriate that we do this on the Feast of Pentecost.

In the upper room, the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles and literally set them ablaze in the love of God. This would be confirmed (made firm) in their hearts lest they ever be tempted to doubt again. The light of this love would also expose any sin or wounds that have become obstacles to spiritual intimacy and growth.

In other words, the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin ~ in order to liberate us from them! As adopted children who bear the name "Christ," the Spirt conforms us into the image of Christ ~ molding our lives to model his. Finally, the forth thing the Holy Spirit will do in your life is commission you because the "Good News" is too good to be kept hidden and private. I don't know the answer to what YOU want for your birthday, but the gift God wants to give you is clear: A changed life!