Friends, today we are celebrating the sixth Sunday of Easter in year C. One figure that features in all the readings of this Sunday is the Holy Spirit. Jesus is gradually approaching the end of his earthly ministry, so he promised to send us the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the radiant glory that enlightens us. If we remain docile to Him, he will guide us in all our decisions and ways through this world. On this Sunday, we reflect on the significant role of the Holy Spirit in our faith journey. We can explore how the Holy Spirit guided the early Christians, continues to guide the Church, and assures us of God’s constant presence. These insights help us understand the enduring impact of Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit and its relevance in our lives today. Holy Spirit, guide us and fill our hearts with your love. Lord, us to follow your will and stay true to your teachings. Be our comfort and strength in all we do.
Friends, in the first reading of today and the whole of Acts of the Apostles, the Apostles did not make any decisions without consulting the Holy Spirit. Also, they could not carry out any severe mission without the Holy Spirit. “The Holy Spirit and we have decided,” they said. Brothers and sisters, we see the Apostles making important decisions with the help of the Holy Spirit. This guidance was crucial in resolving issues and uniting the early Church. The Holy Spirit is the outpouring of God’s perfect love, allowing the early Christians to encounter and experience this love. Jesus often spoke of the Father’s love and taught His disciples how to live according to it. This love became present to the first Christians through the Holy Spirit. Despite facing persecution, they found peace and strength in the presence of the Holy Spirit. It was this divine love that empowered them to continue Christ’s mission.
Friends, the second reading of today begins; “In the Spirit, the angel took me to the top of an enormous mountain.” Of course, there is no way John could have seen these things without the help of the Holy Spirit. Brothers and sisters, this powerful message shows us that God is always with us, not confined to a specific place. It reassures us that we can experience God’s presence in our daily lives, wherever we are. The Holy Spirit is God’s presence with us, guiding and comforting us. We are encouraged to recognize the presence of God in our lives. We don’t need to go to a specific place to find God. Instead, we can feel His presence in our hearts and the world around us. By being aware of this, we can draw strength and comfort from knowing that God is always with us through the Holy Spirit.
Friends, in the Gospel of today, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit to His disciples. The Holy Spirit is God’s presence with us, guiding and comforting us. Jesus’ promise means that we are never alone; the Holy Spirit is always there to support us and help us understand God’s will. The Holy Spirit provided clarity and direction, helping the Apostles stay true to Jesus’ teachings. The role of the Holy Spirit didn’t end with the Apostles. The Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church, offering wisdom and support to leaders and believers alike. This presence helps the Church remain faithful to the mission of Christ, even in challenging times. The decisions made by the Church are influenced by the Holy Spirit, ensuring they align with God’s will. Brothers and sisters, today we are reminded to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our own lives. By opening our hearts to the Holy Spirit, we can find the strength and wisdom needed to make good decisions. Let us trust in the Holy Spirit to lead us, just as it led the Apostles, and continue to guide the Church in truth and unity. The same Spirit that guided and empowered the early Christians is available to us today. By embracing the Holy Spirit, we can find peace and strength to continue Christ’s mission in our own lives. Let us open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and allow God’s love to work through us. The Lord be with you …. May the Almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Have a blessed Sunday and a fruitful new week to you.
