This Sunday is two weeks before Pentecost, but already the readings prepare us for that feast. The first reading from Acts shows us the conversion of the Samaritans, thanks to Philip’s preaching and curing the sick. He did this through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit makes Jesus present today, not just in the sacraments, but through us, his disciples.
Jesus knew that after his Resurrection appearances, he would not be visible as a man. Instead, he would live in all of his followers through the power of the Holy Spirit. That’s why he tells the disciples that the Spirit will be with them and in them. The Sacrament of Confirmation, the laying on of hands (Acts 8:17), reminds us that when God lives in us, we share in the power of the Holy Spirit.
In the second reading, Peter gives us practical advice. First, he tells us to be ready to explain our hope in the Lord. That hope comes from our faith in the Resurrection. When you hear that people saw and talked to Jesus after he rose from the dead, then hear that anyone who follows Jesus will share in that resurrection, you begin to have real hope. Next, Peter tells us to avoid sin, not because we won’t be forgiven again, but to show that we can live a life free from sin, selfishness, and hatred. Freedom from sin allows us to give a good example of how to live. Abandoning selfishness allows us to love others without counting the cost. When we are free from hatred, we are able to forgive others as we have been forgiven. As we live in Jesus and he in us, our happiness will attract people to God.
Tom Schmidt, Diocesan Publications