Seasonal Inspiration
By: Rev. John Phalen, CSC, President
Holy Cross Family Ministries
- Pentecost was already a big celebration for the Israelites way before the Holy Spirit came upon the Apostles. The feast celebrated the giving of the Decalogue, the Ten Commandments—to the people. The custom was to stay awake in solemn prayer the whole night. This may explain why the Apostles and Mary were in the upper room calling upon God in prayer.
- And we all know what happened; a great wind and a great noise, and tongues of fire over the heads of those present. The Holy Spirit came upon the Apostles and gave them courage to preach the word of God, even in languages they did not know. This was truly a phenomenal miracle. The ability to communicate the significance of Jesus’ life, his passion and death and rising, came upon the Apostles and removed their fear. They preached with energy and zeal, and 3,000 people were added to the number of those who followed Jesus’ way.
- One of the reasons we know the Church will survive problems and challenges is the fact that the Holy Spirit guides her, and we place all our confidence in this Spirit. Have you ever been in a rather “impossible” situation in which those who were suffering with a severe problem came to you seeking your counsel? You felt totally inadequate to the task, but somehow, words were given to you that made sense to all and those in deep trouble went away consoled energized and satisfied. That’s a time to give thanks to the Holy Spirit for that enlightenment.
- The Holy Spirit is given to us as Advocate and guide. Let us continue to pray for the Spirit’s enlightenment and give thanks to God for our experience of it. God does not abandon the People of God, a fact for which we all give thanks!