SOLEMN FEAST OF PENTECOST B
THE SPIRIT AND THE CROSSES OF OUR LIVES
JN 20: 19-23
MESSAGE
My favorite presentation of the Most Blessed Trinity comes from the “Theology of the Cross” of Jurgen Moltmann. Moltmann depicts Jesus’ experience at the Cross as one of abandonment – a total neglect and painful separation from the Father he loves deeply. What dying man would not feel such pain? Yet the Father also suffers, as he witnesses the death of his Son. What parent would not feel such anguish? He endures the pain of losing the One he loves, the center of his heart. Amidst all these, where is the Holy Spirit? He is present there at the crucifixion, too, accompanying Jesus. It is the Holy Spirit who bridges the love of Father and Son in the midst of their suffering and pain, uniting them in their struggles. He is the love that “is stronger than death,” the love that conquers the separation and division that death brings.
Perhaps this is too deep to appreciate in one sitting. Just thinking about this presentation moves me to tears. Nevertheless, the message is crystal clear. Nothing could separate Jesus from the Father and the Father from Jesus because the Holy Spirit will always be their bond of love and unity.
We all go through painful moments in our lives, when we are tempted to question if God is listening, if he knows, if he cares, if he has not in fact, already turned his back on us. But as Christians, do we not wonder why, even in these moments and given these thoughts and feelings, we remain faithful, albeit struggling, to our faith? It is because of the Holy Spirit. This mysterious presence of God, the Third Person of the Trinity, lives in our hearts. He will not abandon us, nor let us abandon God, nor allow God to forget us. Thank you, Lord, for your Gift, the Holy Spirit!
REFLECT
We remember to pray to the Holy Spirit for inspiration, courage, and strength. But the most opportune time to pray to him is when we face life’s difficulties, confusions, doubts, and fears. The Holy Spirit accompanied Jesus all his life and especially on the Cross. Let us make it a daily habit to pray to the Holy Spirit. “Holy Spirit, dwell in my heart and draw me close to the Father and the Son. Amen!”
