HOMILY OF SATURDAY OF THE 3RD WEEK OF EASTER.
Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin, Doctor
Acts 9:31-42, John 6:60-69
THEME: CONSOLATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Saint Catherine of Siena was a 14th-century Italian mystic and theologian who played a significant role in the Catholic Church. She was born in Siena, Italy, in 1347 and was known for her deep devotion to God and her acts of charity towards the poor and the sick. She was also a prolific writer, and her works include “The Dialogue of Divine Providence” and other numerous letters and prayers.
“The churches throughout Judaea, Galilee and Samaria were now left in peace, building themselves up, living in the fear of the Lord, and filled with the consolation of the Holy Spirit.”
There is always a time of consolation for those who keep the faith amidst tribulations. Oftentimes, the Holy Spirit takes us through a school of bitter experiences. If only we can be patient, we will surely pick some recipes for true peace. The peace gained by the churches came after the great persecution. Through the apostles, God worked wonders in Jesus’ name and a good number of people were added to the church.
Moreover, when the spirit of the Lord is upon us, we perform with ease, feats that go beyond human imagination. It gives us assurance when we are faced with skepticism. Even when Jesus followers stopped following him, he was not deterred. He simply asked the twelve,
“What about you, do you want to go away too?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘Lord, who shall we go to? You have the message of eternal life, and we believe; we know that you are the Holy One of God.”
It is all about clarity of purpose and full knowledge of the path we are taking. One with God is majority.
May the joy of the Lord remain our strength. Amen.
