April 9, 2008

Acts 8:26-40 / Jn 6:44-51

Trying to comprehend who and what God is is a project doomed in advance to failure, and the process of trying can make our heads hurt. The idea of an infinite, utterly transcendent being is just too big to wrap our minds around. And at the other end of the spectrum, the idea of an immanent God who actually dwells within us feels almost too good to be true. But true it is, as Jesus told us. The Holy Spirit of God dwells within each one of us at all times. Even when we sin, the Spirit does not abandon us, but whispers to us and guides us back to Jesus’ way.

Today’s reading from the Acts of the Apostles gives us an instance of the indwelling Spirit’s active guidance of Philip the Apostle. What’s important to note is not just that the Spirit spoke to Philip’s need for guidance at a specific moment, but that Philip heard and acted upon the Spirit’s guidance. That’s the real marvel! And it’s also our challenge. Few things are more vital to our lives as followers of Jesus than developing the habit of listening to the Spirit and the skill of discerning whether it’s the Spirit speaking or just our own wishes and desires trying to make themselves heard.

The Spirit is offering us wisdom and insight — all for free. Listen carefully and watch your life gain a whole new dimension.