SPIRIT BEFORE US; SPIRIT BESIDE US; SPIRIT IN US!
6 th Sunday of Easter A May 25, 2014 SPIRIT BEFORE US; SPIRIT BESIDE US; SPIRIT IN US! Indwelling presence are two big words. After so long studying theology prior to ordination, I still could not fully understand it. As a priest for so long now, I think I am beginning to understand some of it. The three readings today talk about the Spirit being given and being received. The first reading talks about Peter and John going to Samaria and praying over the Samaritans recently baptized. Peter’s letter (second reading) refers to Jesus being brought back to life in the Spirit. The Gospel of John reminds us of the Father giving another Advocate who “will be with us always” – the “Spirit of Truth.” Indwelling presence may be big words, but the reality they stand for is even bigger! And it does not matter anymore if my puny little mind can still not fully fathom what it means. When I don’t understand things, I feel I am alone ...