The "now" word in today's readings is: "within a short time" (Jn 16:16). The phrase "short time" is used four times in the Gospel passage. Through this repetition, the Lord undoubtedly wants to emphasize that something is about to happen. In addition, He obviously wants us ready instead of unprepared when it takes place.
Liturgically, we begin praying the Pentecost novena tomorrow. Throughout this novena, we prepare to receive the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Like a parent hustling to get children ready to catch the school bus, the Lord, through His Church, practically screams to us that it's time to stop dawdling. We must get ready to pray now or we'll miss the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which the Lord has long been preparing for us.
"The time is short" (1 Cor 7:29). Do whatever it takes to get ready for the Holy Spirit. Turn off or throw out the TV. Stop reading the newspapers and read the Bible instead. Go to Confession during the novena. Attend Mass as often as possible, even daily during these nine days. When the Spirit comes, may He find you ready and waiting with open arms. "Within a short time," "receive the Holy Spirit" (Jn 16:16; 20:22).
| PRAYER: | Holy Spirit, may I be so prepared to receive You that it only takes me a "short time" to respond to You. |
| PROMISE: | "Many of the Corinthians, too, who heard Paul believed and were baptized." –Acts 18:8 |
| PRAISE: | Karl, a lawyer, has generously donated his time for years to serve God as a legal consultant to a Catholic ministry. |
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