Dearest Lord Jesus, you have promised to send us the Holy Spirit to teach us everything that you have told; bless us, cleanse us to be open to you always, to welcome the Holy Spirit so we may always be disposed to its will and directions.
How funny to hear the experience of Paul and Barnabas today at Lystra where people insisted to offer them with sacrifices and garlands to honor them both as gods, Zeus and Hermes after they have healed a crippled man; funny because it continues to happen among us your disciples these days when at the other end are people persecuting us for speaking about justice and truth while at the other extreme are people who worship us, regarding us like gods in bringing your good news of salvation and healing to them.
In both instances, Lord, we need to mature in the Holy Spirit: that we be filled with courage and determination to proclaim your gospel among those who resist us and at the same time that we may always be humble and sincere in our mission to share you alone, dear Jesus when people tend to see us more, almost adoring us that we forget we are your mere servants and vessels of grace. Amen.
