Jude 1:17,20-25
Psalm 62(63):2-6
Mark 11:27-33
Faith as foundation
In today’s first reading from the Letter of Jude, I find tremendous comfort in the specific, guiding words from the Apostles. “Build yourselves up in your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in the love of God and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.”
These words serve as a firm foundation for spiritual growth and perseverance. Several thousand years have passed since Jesus walked with the apostles and promised an Advocate—the Holy Spirit—after His death. I sometimes feel we don’t fully grasp just how vital and uplifting that promise truly is and continues to be today. Do we treat it as a treasured gift, similar to a gift card, which we appreciate but rarely redeem or fully utilize? I don’t think the Spirit has ever been explicitly quoted by name in the Bible, but His presence is woven into every part of Scripture.
Finding quiet moments and appropriate environments for contemplation is essential, as the Spirit is quiet and speaks in whispers. Allowing ourselves to call upon the Holy Spirit and settle into His presence can be a transformative experience, offering peace, guidance, and strength. Rest in this peacefulness, listen for the gentle nudges prompting action, and embrace these divine encounters with confidence, rejoicing in the gift of peace, joy, and clarity of purpose.
The Holy Spirit is active, bringing the full spectrum of the Trinity’s gifts to us. He has our best interests at heart, was promised by Jesus, is real, and was sent personally to each of us as a divine gift meant to guide and empower our lives.
Fr Joseph Osho