St. Luke gives us a synopsis of the first debate in the Church, which took place at The Council of Jerusalem.  The Council used a process of listening, praying, and responding to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, in making their decisions.  When the Council concluded the apostles and elders announced: “It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us .…” 

The Council of Jerusalem decided WHAT the Church would teach and require of Gentile converts.

The Apostles depended on the Holy Spirit; the Holy Spirit that Jesus and the Father sent to them.  Jesus offers us the gift of His peace, a peace that is profound.   Allowing God’s grace to form us will strengthen our faith and our faith provides a foundation of trust that in the end God will triumph.   

How can we allow the Holy Spirit to breathe our breath?  Maybe this story can help us understand. 

The rabbi asked his students: “How can we determine the hour of dawn, when the night ends and the day begins?”  One of the rabbi’s students suggested: “When from a distance you can distinguish between a dog and a sheep?”  “No,”” was the answer from the rabbi.  “It is when one can distinguish between a fig tree and a grapevine?” asked a second student.  “No,” said the rabbi.  The students said, “Please tell us the answer then.”  The Rabbi said, “It is when you can look into the face of another human being, and you have enough light in you to recognize your brother or your sister.  Until then it is night, and darkness is still with us.”  As Christians - when we see the face of God in each face we look into - then the darkness of sin will fade and the light of Christ will direct our actions, will direct our lives and the Holy Spirit will breathe the peace of God upon the world. 

 

Take a few minutes, today, and think about how you can shine the light of Christ upon a world mired in darkness, hatred, and selfishness.

 

St. Joseph pray for us.                                                                                        

St. Andre Bessette intercede for us.                                                                

May God Be Praised!