From the Word of the Day
“The Advocate, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” (John 14: 26)
A special atmosphere surrounded all those who had gathered in Jerusalem around the Apostles and Mary, the Mother of Jesus. They were prayerfully concluding the annual feast of Pentecost. Their fear or uncertainty about what to do after Jesus’ Ascension did not isolate them but rather caused an incessant prayer of invocation to flow from their heart: Come Holy Spirit!
Jesus had presented the Spirit many times to them and to us with various names and titles. It was not easy to understand who the Spirit is, but what the Spirit would do in them and for them, was a truly reassuring promise. This promise is made to us as well.
Above all, the Spirit is the Paraclete, the Consoler, as we usually translate it, the One who is close to us, the one who consoles, comforts, encourages us. The Spirit is in us and prays for us, insistently asking and petitioning for us. The Spirit calls, gathers, invites. Simply put, the Spirit is the One who “will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” Jesus said this to His disciples and He continually repeats it to us as well. This Spirit was effused in us at our Baptism and Confirmation. We have been wrapped in the gifts of wisdom and fortitude. Each day, the Spirit reminds us of who we are and the mission that has been entrusted to Jesus’ disciples, the Christians. We are sent to proclaim Him and witness to Him in the simplicity of our daily life, without being discouraged by the weight of the mission. He is with us! The Spirit reminds us and teaches us what to do and how to be! Let us open our mind and heart; open wide the doors of our homes!
Today in my pause for silent contemplation, I will relish the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life and the gifts He brings to help me be a faithful and loving follower of Jesus.
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Your love!
The Voice of Pope Francis
Bring peace in war, warmth where cold reigns today, give to everyone what is mine, plant a heaven on the earth. What an enthusing mission God has entrusted to us! Oh, if I had only done it!
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