Paul says to us in his Letter to the Ephesians, “May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened, that you may know what is the hope that belongs to His call…” Jesus has finished his work here on earth and now begins to extend the call to each of us to continue the good works begun. He will be giving to the apostles – and to each of us the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is our call to make the church come alive through the inspiration and guidance of the Spirit. Jesus tells us in the gospel “go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.” We do so through our actions even more than through our words.
As Vincentians, this call connects us intimately to the poor and less fortunate – those to whom Jesus most closely aligned himself with. Not only are ‘the eyes of our hearts enlightened… ‘, but through our actions, we enlighten the eyes of those to whom we minister. We bring to light the hope which is found in and through Jesus Christ. Do we open ourselves to the presence of the Spirit, that we might be guided to follow God’s will in our ministry? Do we minister with humility, gentleness, and patience making Christ ever present? Do we bring the gift of hope to all whom we encounter?
Lord Jesus, open my heart to the Spirit that I might be enlightened. Allow me to minister always in humility, with gentleness and patience that I might respond worthily to your call. Grant that I might be able to effectively convey your hope, your presence, and your love to all I minister to. Allow me to be your instrument of healing helping to usher in new beginnings for those who are hurting. We pray all of this in your name. Amen
Deacon Mike