The Lord commands us to be zealous to receive and give prophecy, that is, a message from God (1 Cor 14:1). At the first Christian Pentecost, the prophet Joel's prophecy about prophecy was fulfilled (Jl 3:1ff; Acts 2:17-18), and the Church was born. Consequently, prophecy is not just a part of the Church; it is at the beginning and heart of the Church. The Church is founded on not only the apostles but also the prophets (Eph 2:20). More than anyone else, Christians should exclaim: "Would that all the people of the Lord were prophets!" (Nm 11:29)

To give prophecy, we must be open to receive prophecy. Will you let the Lord say anything to you? Will you let the Lord speak to you through anyone? Will you allow Him to pierce, penetrate, and judge the thoughts of your heart? (Heb 4:12) Are you docile, teachable, even in things beyond your understanding? (see Is 55:8-9) Do you seek correction, repentance, and holiness? Do you want to know God's will more than you want to do your will? According to prophecy, this is the year of the Great Jubilee. "The Lord speaks — who will not prophesy!" (Am 3:8)

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, December 16, 1999

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 18, 1999