Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

As we reflect upon these readings given to us by Holy Mother Church, we are reminded of the very nature of who we are as Christians and what our mind should be. In other words, we are “God’s chosen ones.” If we were to think for a moment what a person who would be chosen by God would be like – we have the perfect description here – one who is beloved of God has “heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience.” She or he is one who “bears with one another and forgives each other – in the same way Christ has forgiven you.”

So, we know our place. We are the ones who are imbued with “the peace of Christ.”

Moreover, we also know that we are to “be thankful.”

We are taught by God and, at times, admonished by God. Be grateful – and remember to say “thanks.” In fact, in all things, we must learn to say “thanks.”

Thanks for everything! This Mass of the Holy Spirit is a thanksgiving to God for such extraordinary things in our lives. How grateful we must be each and every day!

Now, the Gospel highlights again what sets the man or woman of God on the path to sainthood. This path is shared by many others - even sinners, according to St Luke. Our attraction to Christ must not keep us at the level of sinners. Several times during the Gospel we hear the words: “Even the sinners love those who love them….Even the sinners do the same.”

We are asked to love enemies – and do good. In other words, be merciful – not to discount the actions of another – but see in the depths of their heart, the extraordinary dignity they have because, like you or me, they were created in God’s image and likeness.

That image and likeness, present in us, enables us to be drawn to God ( i.e., attracted, magnetized to the very mystery of the Godhead). We hope we can reflect the image of God to those who look upon us or who depend upon us.

The saints are like that. In their life, there was “something more.” There was “something” that this world cannot understand. It is a “something” that is attractive – like the “something” the early Christians had. Many said, “See how they love one another.” They are the ones who let the light of Christ shine through.

Thus, it must be for all of us. We are filled with hope, guided by the Holy Spirit today. We pray that this day may be a day of hope and joy as we beg the Holy Spirit to re-create us in the image and likeness of God to renew the face of the earth.

Through his witness, St. Peter Claver, a Jesuit, was one such person who let the light of Christ shine through. He ministered to the slaves in their misery and, simultaneously, to the slave owners to whom he preached mercy.

I pray that you hear the call of Christ in your life – because of your great dignity – to do something great for God each and every day.

May God bless you!