Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

 

“When the Advocate comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation.”

 

Gospel Reading: John 16:5-11

 

Jesus said to his disciples: "Now I am going to the one who sent me, and not one of you asks me, 'Where are you going?' But because I told you this, grief has filled your hearts. But I tell you the truth, it is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation: sin, because they do not believe in me;  righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see me; condemnation, because the ruler of this world has been condemned."

 

Today’s Gospel reading is an extension of yesterday’s reading. Jesus has just told the Apostles of his pending crucifixion and that he will be leaving them. The Apostles are filled with sorrow at the thought that Jesus would leave them for he has only been with them for a very short time. Jesus tells them that unless he goes away, the Holy Spirit will not come to them. The Holy Spirit comes to teach the world about “sin and righteousness and condemnation,” and is coming to awaken the Apostles and fill them with the joy of the Lord. The Holy Spirit will give the Apostles new strengths and powers to combat evil and sin. Jesus has just unfolded the plan of our salvation letting us know that there is hope for salvation. It is also through the Holy Spirit that we are guided to the narrow gate of the kingdom of heaven. He tells us that the Holy Spirit will “convict the world” meaning that the Holy Spirit is sent for everyone, not just the Apostles. We are filled with the Holy Spirit during our Baptism and we ask God to strengthen the power of the Holy Spirit in us during our Confirmation. The Holy Spirit is what sanctifies our body and makes us true children of Christ. We are all called to kindle the flame of the Holy Spirit and make sure that it shines bright within us.  If not, the Holy Spirit will condemn us because of our lack of righteousness.

 

A Simple Prayer

 

Come Holy Spirit, fill my heart with the joy of the Lord.

Come Holy Spirit, help me conquer sin and death.

Lead me along the path of righteousness so I may enter the gate to the kingdom of Heaven.

 

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon