It is 7th May 2018. The readings are from Acts 16:11-15; and the Gospel from John 15:26-16:4. God is the one who opens human heart to be charitable when they are docile, open and willing to accommodate relationships. Nothing makes a human heart happier than versatile relationships. People who are hospitable, sociable and friendly are the one who are happy people and find contentment in new acquaintances. They live a pain free life. In the first reading, we encounter a lady named Lydia is of such nature who was hospitable, generous, God-fearing and loved people as they are. She came to listen to St. Paul when he preached. “The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul.” (Acts. 16:14). When was the last time, God opened our hearts to be generous, hospitable and letting people into our lives for the sake of spreading the Good News? Lydia went to the extent of inviting the apostles to stay in her home and to build a church for the believers. The responsorial Psalm praises, “The Lord takes delight in his people.” (Ps.149:4). The Gospel invites us to be strong and faithful to God in times of persecution and harassment. Jesus wants us to be the witnesses of His love to those who are poor and those who are in perennial pain caused by bad and unhealthy relationships. Let us bring out the best in us when we are suppressed, abused, and vowed to get rid of us. God is with us and therefore let us continue to be the witnesses of love, hope and joy to the world. God promises through Jesus that the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth would testify for us when people would harm us and we must not be afraid of any human agent. Our duty is to live a life of truth and charity at all times to all people. “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf.” (Jn.15:26). Our personal suffering and pain are the witnesses for Christ. Witness means to be a martyr. Believing and living the truth is the witnessing Jesus demands from each one of us. We need to know the Word of God, believe it and live it until the Word turns into life in us. The Holy Spirit is the one who would open our lives for God to assist us to encounter truth. May the Lord continue to help us to be lovable, joyful and charitable when people around us through the dirt on us for our personal and social sins. May you have a good day. God bless you.