On Sunday, May 25, we read the account of the Disciples who were working with the people in Antioch. They had been confused as to what to do as Gentile Christians, whether they were to act as Jews or as Gentile Christians. Paul and Barnabas decided to go up to Jerusalem to discuss this question with the Apostles and the Elders. They prayed and discussed the matter, and decided to send back a letter to the people of Antioch of their decision with these words: “It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden…” (Acts 15:22-29)
That way of praying and making decisions in community is so meaningful, powerful and reassuring. This is the way we make important decisions in our Benedictine Community life. It is the way the Conclave worked with the Holy Spirit in discerning and choosing our new Pope Leo XIV. If we all called on the Holy Spirit to accompany us in all our decision-making in this way, we would be more at peace with our decisions.
The gift of the Holy Spirit was promised by Jesus to all of us before he returned to his Father, as was proclaimed in the Gospel, also on this Sunday. (John 14: 23-29) “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I told you.” The Holy Spirit is sent to us by the Father in the name of Jesus, to participate in the mission of Jesus, by reminding the disciples of all that Jesus had taught them, and more. The Spirit comes to enlighten us.
Soon we will celebrate the Gift of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost Sunday, along with the whole Church.
Come Holy Spirit, Come!
