THE HOLY SPIRIT IS OUR PROMISE
He (Jesus) presented himself alive to them by many proofs after he had suffered, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. While meeting with them, he enjoined them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for "the promise of the Father about which you have heard me speak; for John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." (Acts 1: 1-5).
REFLECTION
Having said these words, the apostles saw Jesus rise to Heaven, Saint Luke tells us. The promise remained with them. Perplexed by such a great manifestation of God, the disciples of Jesus kept the promise of the Father that God himself would descend upon them to remain forever in the hearts of men.
We know that we can do very little by ourselves if we do not receive God's help. We know that it is difficult to be constant and consistent with the teachings that Jesus left us in his Gospel if we are not encouraged and animated by the Spirit, who constantly comes to our aid. Therefore, on this first day, let us ask the Holy Spirit to make the Father's promise present in us and encourage us to move forward, as it is expected of each one.
EXAM
Can I truly believe that God, through the strength of the Holy Spirit, can do everything in me despite my weaknesses and difficulties?
INTENTION
May the promise of the coming of the Spirit remain in us. Through it we know that God is always present in our lives.
PRAYER
Father, send us your Spirit every day of our lives, as you have promised us. May he make us men and women renewed in your love. That, by his merciful and effective action, we may feel capable of carrying out your designs every day. We trust in your promise, by it we are sustained and we encourage our brothers in the path of faith. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be.
