As we continue “Eastering” during these sacred eight days, we hear in the first reading the very first speech of Peter after being slain in the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. That very first Pentecost experience transformed the disciples into apostles on a new mission from Jerusalem and the Jewish people. Their new charge: to repent, baptize, and go forward to the ends of the earth. How amazing to hear that 3,000 people were baptized! They could not help but join in the excitement.
The resurrection stories are still fresh as we proclaim them anew this week. In a world torn by war, cultural clashes, and disunity in many institutions, we probably feel like Mary Magdalene, weeping and sad that things are not going as we hoped. Amid a cemetery, Mary Magdalene is also slain in the Holy Spirit to recognize the great teacher again, not clinging to the past with their life but moving forward and announcing the Good News.
Scripture reminds us to keep moving forward, not clinging to despair and locking ourselves in a room hiding or locking up our hearts and minds. Each day is a gift from God that the Lord has made to help us be glad and rejoice. In our lives, how are we living in the Holy Spirit? Is each morning a new Pentecost to give us hope?
Prayer
O Holy Spirit, guide our hearts and minds to be alive with your grace! Lord God, instruct us to see your presence of hope, especially in times of despair. Christ Jesus, may we spread your Good News to all we meet this day.