It is 12th April 2021. The readings are from Acts 4:23-31; and the Gospel from John 3:1-8.
The Holy Spirit gives us a new birth to enter deeply and to evangelize. Without being born in the Spirit, we cannot have the access to the Kingdom of God. “Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.” (Jn.3:5). To be born again in the Spirit, we need to be imbibed by the same Spirit of God. The first reading highlights the impact of the Holy Spirit in the life of the apostles especially Peter and John. Courage and convictions are the gifts of the Spirt of God. All those who trusts the Lord are gifted and entrusted with the Holy Spirit. Misunderstanding, misconception, lack of faith and fear of life situation all indicate the absence of the Spirit of God in our life. The early Church was persecuted yet protected by the Spirit of God. To communicate and connect with the Spirit of God, we need to commit ourselves in prayer. Without prayer that is personal and profound, we cannot feel the presence of God. Just because we are affiliated to an institution or to a person, we cannot be filled with the Holy Spirit.
The responsorial Psalm acclaims, “Happy are all who put their trust in the Lord.” (Ps.2:12)
Not all who argue and differ with us are our enemies. One such person is Nicodemus among those Pharisees who spoke ill of Jesus at times. Every human interaction shape and sharpens our love and admiration for one another. People who do not clarify with the others presumably accept everything without comprehension. Proclamation of the Good News is not an option but obligation by the virtue of baptism and by the faith in the risen Lord. Easter time is the time to invite the Holy Spirit into our life and revisit our commitment to the Lord. May you be inspired to proclaim the Good News in truth and spirit. Have a good day. God bless you.