SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER, YEAR A

Acts 8:5-8, 14-17

Psalm 66

1 Peter 3:15-18

John 14:15-21

THE PROMISE OF THE PARACLETE

This Sunday precedes the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, which will be celebrated next Thursday, and will usher us into the immediate preparation for the celebration of Pentecost. As such, today’s readings make direct reference to the Holy Spirit and invite us to rediscover his presence in our lives.

In the gospel, Jesus promises to his disciples that he will not leave them orphans. He will pray to the Father so that he may send them another Advocate (Paraclete), the Spirit of Truth. As an Advocate, the Holy Spirit will remain with and in them. He will stand by them, comfort, defend and support them. Hence, they will never be alone in their witness to Christ, even in the midst of great sufferings, trials and various kinds of persecution. As the Spirit of Truth, he will teach them everything and remind them of everything that Jesus had told them. This promise cannot but be a source of great joy and hope.

Since the world neither sees nor knows this Advocate, Christians must always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks them for a reason for their hope. As Saint Peter affirms in the second reading, this must be done with gentleness, reverence and clear conscience. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the believer should give a bold testimony to Christ, even in situation of hostility.

In this perspective, Philip’s apostolate may be considered as a concrete example not only of a disciple’s bold witness of his faith and hope, but also of the action of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. Driven out of Jerusalem by severe persecution against the Church, he arrives in the city of Samaria, where he proclaims Christ to the people. His proclamation brings great joy to the city. The people are baptized, and with the laying of hands of the Apostles Peter and John, they receive the Holy Spirit.

We too have received the Holy Spirit in our baptism and confirmation. He dwells in us. But the question is: are we aware of his actions and power in our lives? Do we allow ourselves to be taught by him? Do we ask him to teach us how to bear witness to our faith and hope?