Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blessed… I heard that song on Sunday – Pentecost Sunday when we read in Acts 2 how we are all, each of us, filled with the Holy Spirit. This happens by virtue of our Baptism. We are sealed with the Spirit at our Confirmation. And for what? Not just for our own selfish joy and aggrandizement. No, the Spirit is given to us for some benefit for the good of others (1 Cor 12:7).
But do you really believe that? Do you embrace that truth deep down in our soul? What would your life look like if you did embrace that truth and surrendered to the Holy Spirit with boldness and courage?
Consider a couple of the fruits of the Spirit you receive when you accept this truth: generosity and kindness (Gal 5:22). An attitude of generosity is the heart of being a disciple. God gives us everything. He gives lavishly. Generosity is one of our best responses to Him. We gratefully receive God’s gifts. We manage them faithfully. And out of kindness, we share with others. We care about what is best for our neighbor. Our trust in God to provide and our obedience to His word drives us to generously and courageously share our material resources to make sure our most vulnerable neighbors are fed, clothed, housed, educated – in other words – loved. Their lives change for the good. This is the Spirit in action for the good of others! (1 Cor 12:7)
Oh Wow! What if we all responded this way? What would our world look like if we stepped out in faith, heeded the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and gave to the needs of the poor, we would change the world. We would literally renew the face of the earth as we read in Ps 104:30.
So, Come Holy Spirit. Fill the hearts of your faithful. May you and I be counted as one of those. Let us pray with St Augustine, “O Holy Spirit, descend plentifully into my heart. Enlighten the dark corners of this neglected dwelling and scatter there Thy cheerful beams.” Give us the wisdom to know and the courage to do what you want us to do to build Your kingdom, so that You renew the face of the earth. Let us find peace and joy in being obedient to your will. Amen.
Photo Credit: Robert Davis
Podcast: Play in new window | Download