the waiting is the hardest part
"Then He breathed on them and said: 'Receive the Holy Spirit.' " —John 20:22
Many of us reading this reflection are baptized and confirmed Catholics. It was our privilege to sacramentally "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). However, since God the Father has blessed us with intellect and free will, we may choose to "stifle the Spirit" (1 Thes 5:19) in our lives. Will you take advantage of the Feast of Pentecost, or let another year come and go?
Guard against not recognizing your true dignity as an adopted child of God (Rm 8:14-15). Though we are each unique, we "were baptized into one body" (1 Cor 12:13). How are you using your spiritual gifts to advance the Kingdom of God? Sin is our greatest enemy, and no sin is committed in a vacuum. "If you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the evil deeds of the body, you will live" (Rm 8:13). Let's live for God and for one another.
Jesus, the Word of God, has revealed everything necessary for our salvation. Jesus said, "I will ask the Father and He will give you another Paraclete — to be with you always" (Jn 14:16). Trust Jesus and His Word. "Receive the Holy Spirit" (Jn 20:22).
Prayer: Jesus, I ask You to re-invigorate the Holy Spirit in my life and in the life of the Church. Come, Holy Spirit!
Promise: "The Paraclete, the Holy Spirit Whom the Father will send in My name, will instruct you in everything, and remind you of all that I told you." —Jn 14:26
Praise: Praise the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, our Hope! Alleluia!
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, November 2, 2012
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