Friend,

We are one day away from Pentecost Sunday! No, I’m not expecting the sky to break open, though that would be awesome, but I do love to celebrate and remember and to declare! God sent His Holy Spirit upon a people 2,000 years ago and continues to fill His people and speak to His people and pour His Spirit out on all flesh. (Acts 2:17)

I love what God is doing in San Francisco. I know what is being reported on the news and most of it is true, but there is a completely other narrative that is true and real and good.

Our family moved to San Francisco this week 13 years ago.

We are not the same. The city is not the same. The church we were sent to plant is not the same. Praise God! We are changed!

We are missionaries born for the battlefield!

The church is the original multi-cultural expression to the world. A secret that needs to get out.

We want to honor the past. Love the present. Ask the Spirit what He wants to do in the future.

We are praying with more faith. You can borrow our faith for your community and pray these prayers over where you live:

God, speak to San Franciscans in dreams and visions.

Jesus, rule and reign in San Francisco. Make this city thrive for all things that honor You - beauty, art, nature, community, connection, children, love, and service. Dispel the darkness. Rid our city of evil and darkness and lies.

God, help me not grow numb to the cries of the broken around me. Everyone I see is a reminder God is here. This is why I’m here.

“But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” Jeremiah 29:7

I confess the sins of my city. Father, forgive them for they know not what they do. I name them and repent of them and intercede for my city.

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” 2 Corinthians 13:14

Holy Spirit, give me the courage to pray with people on the spot, on the street and wherever and whomever you prompt me to pray with.

Jesus, this city is Yours. Come and have Your way among us.

I’ve experienced what the Holy Spirit can do in a family, in a church, and in a city. We continue to pray for God to send more Christ followers to our city to partner with us to fan this flame of the Spirit.

Let’s tell the story of where we live. Let’s tell the story of who Jesus is to us. Let us be open to the move and work of the Holy Spirit. He is here. He is blowing. He is for you. He is love.

Wherever you’re at reading this letter to you, consider opening your hands and asking the Spirit to come and fill you. He promises to pour His Spirit out on all flesh. Take Him with you to church on Sunday!

Your friend,

Shauna