Pentecost Sunday: Acts 2: 1-11; 1 Cor 12: 3b-7, 12-13; Jn 20: 19-23

05-28-2023Weekly ReflectionThe Faithful Disciple

GROW: As a college student, I found myself sitting near the information desk during a layover at a German airport. This was in the days before mobile phones and Google Translate. I remember being so impressed that the two young women behind the desk were able to answer questions in so many languages without missing a beat. Whether it was Spanish, French, German or English, each traveler heard an answer in their own language. I often think that must have been what it was like for the travelers to Jerusalem during Pentecost.

They were in an unfamiliar place and yet God spoke to them in a way they could understand. And the beautiful thing about the Pentecost story is that it is not just relating one single moment in time. Instead, it is the start of the Holy Spirit’s ministry here on earth, and in our baptism, we, too, receive the same gift of the Holy Spirit. Confirmation completes the grace we receive at baptism, since we receive a “special strength of the Holy Spirit.” (CCC 1285) We, too, are given the tools to go forth and speak to others even when we are afraid they may not understand. Let us remember St. Paul’s words from the second reading: “To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” And then let us go out and use those gifts for the greater glory of God.

GO: The idea of evangelizing is uncomfortable for many people. Sure, it was fine for the disciples to go out and start talking to strangers, but us? No way. However, evangelization doesn’t have to mean starting conversations on the street (although it can!). Instead, it might be making the sign of the cross before a meal in a restaurant, mentioning Mass when a co-worker asks what you did over the weekend, or displaying a crucifix in your home where visitors will see it. In these small ways, we can encourage others to open the door for God to “shine within these hearts of yours,” as today’s Gospel Sequence says.

PRAY: St. Paul reminds us today that we are all “baptized into one body” and “we were all given to drink of one Spirit.” In today’s divisive world, it can be difficult to remember that. Let us pray for one another knowing that all Christians – even those who may annoy us – are joined together in the same body of Christ. Specifically, have as your at-the-ready prayer this week for all circumstances, the following: Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.