Readings:

Prov 8: 22-31
Romans 5:1-5
John 16:12-15

 

Reflection:

Jesus said, “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now…The Spirit will declare it to you…”

Looking back we can see the work of the Spirit bringing us new light and new understanding over the years and over the centuries. When Paul and Barnabas went to Jerusalem seeking light on the dispute over circumcision for converts, the answer was, “…it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to impose on you no further burden…” Thus the Church embraced all humans, not just Jews.  It took us hundreds of years, led by the spirit, to discern which books belong in the Bible, and which ones do not. It took us three hundred years to recognize the cross as the greatest symbol of our faith. When Francis of Assisi cried out in joy, “Laudato Si’ Signore…”, Praise be to you O Lord.. the Spirit was moving deeply for us to see that we and nature are at one, and not in opposition.

In our day the Spirit has led us to see clearly the evil of slavery, of war, of the death penalty, sexism and discrimination, among other insights. The Spirit was never busier than today.

The Spirit is moving in each of us, and if we listen, we will hear his whispers, leading us to everything that is right, good and beautiful. Help us Lord to be attentive and open even when that inner voice challenges us to make painful changes in our lives.

Jeff Foale is an Australian Passionist living in Vietnam, a former New Guinea missionary with a passion for service of the poor and refugees and who loves life in all its forms and enjoys photography.