This Sunday’s feast of Pentecost brings our Easter season to a close. Some refer to the Easter Season as the “Season of the Holy Spirit,” as the first reading of Mass is from the Acts of the Apostles, where we hear of the great things the Holy Spirit performed through the Apostles and how the Holy Spirit worked in the lives of many as they came to know Jesus.
In John’s Gospel, at the Last Supper, Jesus tells his disciples that he will send the Holy Spirit, who will “testify” to him and be our advocate. In other words, the Holy Spirit walks with us to help us focus on Jesus, his mercy, and his love, especially in difficult times.
The Holy Spirit is at work in our lives when we are focused on Jesus. This may be in times of prayer, such as Eucharistic Adoration. In addition, during Mass, times of silence are honored because it is in silence that we allow the Holy Spirit to do her work in us. The Spirit is also at work when we meet in small groups, such as a prayer group, or when we share our faith with others.
The Holy Spirit, as our “Advocate,” walks with us through challenging times to help us stay focused on Jesus. I experienced the Holy Spirit as I mourned the death of loved ones, such as my parents and brother. I also experience the Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Reconciliation as my sins are forgiven. Like most preachers, I always call on the Holy Spirit to guide me before giving a homily.
Although we are (unfortunately) not always conscious of her work, the Holy Spirit is always at work in us. Pentecost helps us pause and reflect on how the Holy Spirit works in our lives and how we can remain constantly aware of her presence.