6th Easter - Fr. Leo
In the Acts of the Apostles, Peter says, “In truth, I see that God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him.” Peter proclaims this truth after experiencing it first hand. He witnesses the Holy Spirit being poured out on the uncircumcised Gentiles as well as the Jewish members of the early Church. Thus, he has them baptized with water since the Spirit has already given them the gift of tongues.
God poured himself out for all people in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit continues this out pouring today, and is experienced in the love we bare to one another. Our faith comes alive in the experience of love, and it is this sharing of love, that makes our joy complete as Jesus prayed we would experience it in today’s gospel.
Our willingness, and the gift of the Holy Spirit gives birth to love. As we move toward Pentecost, let us pray with open minds and hearts for the gifts of the Holy Spirit, that our joy may be full in a union of love for God and all God’s people.
“Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in us the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and we shall be created and you shall renew the face of the Earth. Amen.”