From the responsorial psalm: “Our God is in heaven; whatever he wills, he does. Their idols are silver and gold, the handiwork of men. Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (Jn 14:21-26)
As Jesus speaks to the disciples, Judas questions in what particular way Jesus will reveal himself and the Father to the world. Obedience to Jesus’ commandments demonstrates love for him as it reveals love of the Father and the Son in action. The Holy Spirit would come as Jesus promised so that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit dwell within. Guiding their understanding of Jesus’ teachings and bringing them to recall all that he has taught them, the coming of the Holy Spirit is a promise fulfilled that ensures that the disciples—and all who believe—will have divine assistance in understanding the truths Jesus has shared with them and the grace to put them into action.
God, help me understand what Jesus was telling the disciples. What he said would happen did happen: the Holy Spirit came to give them greater understanding and strengthen their faith. Jesus spoke the words of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, expressing the will of the Trinity: As Jesus said, “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name—he will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” Lord, just as you sent the Holy Spirit to the disciples, help me also prepare a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit through obedience to the teachings of your Son, to the Church, and in union with the Eucharistic celebration throughout the world. Saint Catherine of Siena, pray for us!