In an era when we are aware of the loneliness of people, today’s Gospel is a Good News story about the gift of faith (trust) in God.
John reminds his readers about God’s promise never to leave people alone.
Prayer, as we know, is an action of faith and is offered in trust by the person praying to God.
In today’s Gospel, John declares the fruit of a prayerful relationship:
“On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me and I in you” (John 14:20).
It is an image of a close, meaningful, and life-giving relationship.
Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, the disciples will come to know and appreciate the unity of the Son and the Father. However, this same gift, that John speaks of, is also offered to you today.
Today’s reading presents the community of disciples, as a community of light. It is a community that still today invites all to be included and involved.
In Christ, there is no conquering of others, no theology to be imposed, no people to be dominated. Their only people are neighbours to be loved. (Craig Greenfield)
As we are now in the ‘Confirmation season’, we remember all people in prayer who will receive the sacrament of the Holy Spirit.
Confirmation Prayer
Holy Spirit, strengthen me with your gifts of Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgement, Courage, Knowledge, Reverence, and Wonder and Awe in God’s Presence, that I may serve as a disciple of Christ. Grant that I may grow into the fullness of the stature of Christ. Fill me with the joy of your presence. Increase in me the fruit of your Spirit. Help me to experience and trust your dwelling within, so that I can count on your guidance today and every day. Show all of us the way to help one another, become better disciples of Jesus Christ, sharing your love with our world and with each person we meet. Come, Holy Spirit, Come!
Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Spirit of God Spirit of God, grant me:
- The gift of wisdom To see the world through your eyes,
- The gift of right judgement To make difficult decisions,
- The gifts of knowledge and understanding To use my mind to know you and to love you,
- The gift of courage to live in the faith Despite the difficulties and disappointments, The gift of reverence To be able to express my special love And commitment to you,
And
- The right kind of awesome fear That makes me pause to wonder and revere God’s Love.
Amen.
Ronan Barry
