In an extremely divisive and volatile situation, the leaders of the early Church rightly discerned the will of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 15:28). They were able to do this because they:
Today we see many people who lack discernment, are very confused, and make terrible decisions regarding marriage, parenting, work, finances, and lifestyle. Those in our culture of death usually are independent. Some of them consider submission to authority a vice. We have the tendency to be contentious and to misunderstand the views of those who disagree with us. In general, we are Biblically illiterate. Moreover, community life has broken down into widespread isolation. We are programmed for failure in discernment and decision-making. To avoid being confused, abused, and deceived, we must repent and devote ourselves "to the apostles' instruction and the communal life, to the breaking of bread and the prayers" (Acts 2:42).
| PRAYER: | Father, make my life a good context for hearing You. |
| PROMISE: | "All this I tell you that My joy may be yours and your joy may be complete." –Jn 15:11 |
| PRAISE: | Pope St. John I was opposed by the heretical emperor and eventually martyred. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College