Like the first major debate in the early Church, we engage in our challenging discussions with the strength of our faith in Christ that reflects the fruitfulness of our lives.
The feast of Pentecost brings the season of Easter to a stunning conclusion with several Scripture options, depending on the Mass you attend and the choice of the presider. Let’s take a look:
Vigil Mass
Genesis 11:1-9 – The tower of Babel
Exodus 19:3-8,16-20 – Moses leads the people to meet God at the foot of Mount Sinai
Ezekiel 37:1-14 – God brings the Spirit and restores the dried bones to life
Joel 3:1-5 – God will pour the Spirit upon the people
Psalm 104 – “Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.”
Romans 8:22-27 – The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness
John 7:37-39 – Jesus speaks of the Spirit as a living water that flows from within
Mass during the Day
Acts 2:1-11 – The Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples and they speak many different languages
Psalm 104 – “Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.”
1 Corinthians 12:3-7,12-13 – The Spirit gives many different gifts and unites the many parts of the body
Galatians 5:16-25 – Live and be guided by the Spirit and the fruit of the Spirit
John 20:19-23 – Jesus breathes on the disciples, offering them peace and the Holy Spirit
John 15:26-27; 16:12-15 – Jesus speaks of the Spirit of truth, the Advocate
These readings are all powerful reminders that the Holy Spirit is among us! May we call upon the Spirit each and every day for the strength and wisdom we need as we strive to offer our lives for the Lord.
Come Holy Spirit! Fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created. And you will renew the face of the earth. O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations. Through Christ our Lord. Amen!
Jesus prays to the Father that the disciples might share in his joy. As a Fruit of the Spirit, joy is a quality that arises from our love with God and one another. May we look for joy in our lives today and share the joy of Jesus Christ with those we meet.