It is 12th April 2018. The readings are from Acts 5:27-33; and the Gospel from John 3:31-36. Witnessing means to have a first hand personal experience of the person or an event with a clear conscience. The power of the Holy Spirit is that which gives us the conviction and courage to pronounce boldly what was observed or experienced without any biased motivation or sinful conscience. Which one to follow whether those who hold the authorities or to our conscience. When people bully what we have experienced, how do we react or take a stand for the truth we have experienced? Witnessing does not come by mere knowledge of something rather it is the personal experience mingled with the deep love for the person. Obedience comes with the personal responsibility and the constant adherence to truth. In the first reading, we continue to read the trial of St. Peter and the Apostles and their unwavering stand for the Risen Lord as the living witnesses. We must stand for the Risen Lord even if the entire world is against for our inner strength in standing for Christ. God offers the Holy Spirit to those who obey Him. It is the Holy Spirit who offers the courage for us to be the witness for the risen Lord. “And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.” (Acts.5:33). The responsorial Psalm prays, “This poor man called and the Lord heard him.” (Ps.33:7). The Gospel invites us to believe in the one who has come from God that is Jesus himself. Jesus does not require any approval from any of us to prove that He comes from God. It is our responsibility to place our trust and belief in Him. We can only enjoy eternal life by the faith we profess in Him and the way we do things for one another. It is by the obedience of faith in Jesus offers such a glorious life with God. “The Father loves the Son and has placed all things in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever disobeys the Son will not see life but must endure God’s wrath.” (Jn.3:36). In his Apostolic Exhortation “Gaudete Et Exsultate” of The Holy Father Francis On The Call To Holiness urges to be courageous (No.158): In Today’s World “The Christian life is a constant battle. We need strength and courage to withstand the temptations of the devil and to proclaim the Gospel. This battle is sweet, for it allows us to rejoice each time the Lord triumphs in our lives.” May you have a day full of blessings.