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"The Power of the Spirit (Pentecost)"
Music & lyrics by Stephen O'Bent
 
I started composing "The Power of the Spirit (Pentecost)" in May of 2020, as my country faced major upheaval due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a racial reckoning following the murder of George Floyd. As old systems crumbled before our eyes, I contemplated what work the Holy Spirit had in re-shaping our world. Through the transforming powers of wind and fire, God appears when we least expect it, smashing our expectations and propelling us toward justice.
 
This piece can be performed with piano only, or with full rhythm section and horns. The soloist is encouraged to ad lib freely, but keeping a strong sense of rhythmic drive throughout.
 
There is an optional instrumental solo section from the end of m.53 to m.76.
 
Thanks to my wife Shannon O'Bent for creative collaboration on this song, and to Nonda Trimis for providing the recorded percussion.
 
Lyrics
I hear the wind blowing, I hear the storm growing
I hear a tempest like there’s never been before
I feel the breath in me, I feel my soul set free
I feel the power of the spirit breaking through every window and door
 
Ooh, can you feel the ground shake?
Ooh, do you know what it means?
Ooh, can you feel the old rules crumble and break?
 
I see the fire burning, I see the blaze rising
I see the tongues of flame proclaiming brand new songs
I feel a spark inside, I feel my fears subside,
I feel the power of the spirit bringing justice to the weary world
 
Ooh, what a world we can make.
Ooh, with compassion for all
Ooh, can you feel the tyrants tremble and quake?
 
I hear the wind blowing, I hear the storm growing
I hear a tempest like there’s never been before
I see the fire burning, I see the blaze rising
I feel the power of the spirit bursting through every window and door
 
Ooh, can you feel the ground shake?
Ooh, do you know what it means?
Ooh, can you feel the empires crumble and break?
 
 
Related scripture:
Acts 2:1-4
Haggai 2:22