Sunday, May 17th: Sixth Sunday of Easter
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In the wonderful Gospel we proclaim this day, Jesus assures us that we are not alone. He has sent us the Spirit, our Advocate and He himself promises that He will come to us. We know his constant presence in His word and His sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. We experience His presence in every prayer we offer and in every act of kindness done by us or for us. Jesus is risen, it is true. He lives in us and through us. The Spirit guides us to be the living presence of Jesus in our world today.
In the first reading from Acts, we see how Philip, guided by the Spirit, brought the Word of God to the people of Samaria and changed their lives forever. He gave them the very best gift he possessed: the love and life of Jesus. Through his preaching and example, lives were forever made new in Christ and the Holy Spirit. We, who were baptized into Jesus through that same Spirit, are called to be active disciples proclaiming the good news by word and example. Author Richard Bach wrote, “Every person, all the events of your life, are there because you have drawn them there. What you choose to do with them is up to you.” As disciples our choice is to bring Christ to all and to bring all to Christ that they may know the fullness of life and joy we experience in Him.
So, like Philip, we go forth with excitement and joy to share the living and loving presence of Christ through generosity, kindness, forgiveness and love. We share the greatest gift we have through our words and our deeds. Disciples do this to build up the Kingdom of God. We may not always be well received or understood, but we will have a great impact. So, share the Christ who lives in you. You might just change the hearts of many. Make the joy of Easter, the joy of following the Risen Lord, the source and pattern of all you do. Watch His Kingdom grow.